A Woman of Faith That Changed Her World

1 Samuel 1:10-11 ESV
“She (Hannah) was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly. And she vowed a vow and said, ‘O Lord of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head.”’

Hannah desired to be a mother but she could not get pregnant. Year after year she felt shame and despondency, she was close to losing all hope. She begged God for a child and it almost seemed that God was not listening, but He was, He always listens to His own.

God had planned all along to give her children, but He was waiting for the right time. Hannah went to Jerusalem year after year to worship and ask God for a son. This time she was more determined than ever. She poured out her heart to God and she meant every word.

After her encounter with God in the temple, she felt like God had heard her and the answer was on the way. Why did God wait so long? I can only guess at a few things.

One, God already knew what her first son was going to be, he was one of greatest prophets Israel had, but timing was everything.

Two, Samuel’s (Hannah’s first born son) life, ministry and love for God are written in 2 books that we still read thousands of years later. We are still learning from Samuel’s life.

Three, it was perfect timing that the High Priest Eli had to go. He was currupt and he was a terrible representation of God.

Four, Eli was in the winter of his life. To pass on the torch would mean another (possibly corrupt) priest in the priesthood would step into his place, God could not let that happen.

Five, Hannah made a crucial vow; to birth a boy child, to wean the child, and then bring the child back to God so God could train him properly.

God has exceptional, perfect timing for me and you. The more we trust Him the greater the outcome.

Prayer:
Father you know best. I’m just a child, train me according to Your will, and teach me to walk holding Your hand and to trust You with my life.