How does 1 Samuel 2:21 demonstrate God's faithfulness in answering prayer? Setting the Scene: Hannah’s Heartfelt Petition • 1 Samuel 1:10-11 records Hannah’s bitter weeping and vow: she asked for a son and promised to give him back to the LORD. • God granted her request; Samuel was born (1 Samuel 1:20). • After dedicating Samuel to the tabernacle (1 Samuel 1:27-28), Hannah might have wondered whether giving up her only child meant lifelong barrenness—but God had more in store. Verse Spotlight: 1 Samuel 2:21 “And the LORD attended to Hannah, and she conceived and gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the LORD.” Key Observations of God’s Faithfulness • “The LORD attended to Hannah” – He personally took notice; her earlier cry was not a one-time transaction but the beginning of an ongoing relationship. • “She conceived and gave birth to three sons and two daughters” – God multiplies blessing, exceeding the original request. • “Meanwhile the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the LORD” – God cares for the child she surrendered, proving He honors both the giver and the gift. Layers of Faithfulness Displayed 1. Faithful to Hear – Psalm 34:4 “I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me…” 2. Faithful to Provide – Philippians 4:19 “And my God will supply all your needs…” 3. Faithful to Exceed – Ephesians 3:20 “Now to Him who is able to do infinitely more than all we ask or imagine…” 4. Faithful to Sustain What Is Given – 1 Samuel 2:26 shows Samuel growing in favor, confirming God’s ongoing care. Scripture Echoes: God Answers the Cry of the Barren • Genesis 21:1-2 – “The LORD visited Sarah … and Sarah conceived.” • Genesis 25:21 – The LORD answered Isaac’s prayer; Rebekah conceived. • Genesis 30:22 – “God remembered Rachel; He listened to her and opened her womb.” These parallels underline a consistent biblical pattern: God hears and acts for those who bring their deepest longings to Him. Principles for Us Today • God’s memory is flawless; no prayer of faith is forgotten. • When we honor the LORD with our first and best, He is free to pour out more (Proverbs 3:9-10). • His answers often overflow the original request, reminding us that His resources and love are limitless. • The same God who blessed Hannah still invites His children to “call to Me and I will answer you” (Jeremiah 33:3). 1 Samuel 2:21 is therefore a vivid portrait of divine faithfulness: He hears, answers, multiplies, and sustains—far beyond what His people dare to ask. |
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