MARCH 1, 2024 – PRAYED

READ: 1 Sam. 1:1-20

For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition which I asked of Him. – 1 Sam. 1:27

Samuel 1 does not provide an anecdote but a revelation from God. He fulfills His salvation plan through a sinful family life. It is the time of the last judges, and everyone does what is right in their own eyes. This deep decay has even penetrated into God’s sanctuary. What is the future of the church? How can Christ still come in such a situation?

The Lord punishes His people with the advancing Philistines and infertility. This is also evident in Elkana’s family. Perhaps for this reason, he has taken a second wife, Peninna, in addition to Hanna. Such situations are tolerated by the LORD in the Old Testament but are not according to His original order. Much misery has arisen from this practice, such as the quarrel between Rachel and Leah. Similarly, in Elkana’s family, Hanna is tormented by Peninna because she has not had children from the LORD. Perhaps a role is played by Elkana showing more love for Hanna. Thus, there is a sense of misery in the church and in their family.

There is certainly also an expression of faith in Elkana’s family. Every year they visit the house of the LORD, bringing offerings, and eat as an expression of gratitude and fellowship. However, it is precisely there that Hanna feels sorrow that she cannot contribute to the upbuilding of the church.

She presents her case to the LORD in the temple. Despite her disappointment, she continues to expect everything from Him. She prays to the LORD of hosts, the almighty God of the covenant, with deep sorrow and tears. But alongside her lamentation of her need, she also makes an remarkable vow to God.

She positions herself as His servant and promises to dedicate her child to His service. Then she receives an encouraging message from the high priest Eli: ‘God will give you what you have asked of Him.’

How can we deal with childlessness?

Singing: Ps. 61:3,4