“And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed to the LORD and wept in anguish.” 1 Samuel 1:10 (NKJV)
Hannah went to the House of the Lord every year, praying for a child. The misery caused by Peninnah’s words and actions were sufficient to make her physically ill.
One particular year after they finished the meal, she went to the tabernacle to talk with God. She wasn’t talking out loud for others to hear, but her mouth was moving as she told God about her troubles. She promised God that if He would give her a son, she would give the son to the Lord for all of his days.
Eli, the High Priest, saw her mouth moving and jumped to the conclusion that she was drunk and chastised her. She quickly told him that she had not been drinking, but that she was pouring out her soul to the Lord. Eli told her to go in peace that God would grant her petition (even though Eli didn’t know what the petition was).
Hannah left the tabernacle and went back to her husband with a changed disposition because she trusted that God would indeed grant her petition. Oh that we would exhibit such faith and trust in God today.
What lessons can I learn from this part of the story? Don’t jump to conclusions about anything or anyone! Before speaking try to find out the whole story instead of just the tip of the iceberg! God used Eli to give Hannah encouragement when her heart was breaking. We can be used by God to encourage others. I can trust God’s promises and go on with my life even if I don’t see the results today.
Listen to Sounds of Hope as they sing “Use Me“
Published on MyBibleRoom.com 2/4/25, 5:00 pm