How does Hannah's example encourage trust in God's timing and provision? Setting the Scene • In 1 Samuel 1, Hannah has endured years of infertility and ridicule, yet each year she still journeys to Shiloh to worship. • Verse 9 captures a turning point: “So Hannah got up after they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh. Now Eli the priest was sitting on a chair by the doorpost of the LORD’s temple.” • This simple act of rising from the meal becomes the doorway to a faith-driven conversation with God that forever changes her life and Israel’s history. Key Insights From Verse 9 • “Hannah got up” — she refuses to stay stuck in despair. Trust begins with movement toward God, not away. • Shiloh is the place of the tabernacle; by entering God’s presence she declares that her circumstances are under His rule. • Eli’s seat by the doorpost reminds us God always installs spiritual oversight; timing and provision often flow through authority God has placed. Hannah’s Actions That Model Trust 1. She chooses worship over withdrawal (v. 9). 2. She pours out her soul “in bitterness of soul” yet with reverence (v. 10). 3. She makes a vow grounded in God’s covenant faithfulness (v. 11). 4. She accepts Eli’s blessing as God’s answer (vv. 17–18), leaves “no longer downcast,” and resumes ordinary life while waiting. What This Teaches About God’s Timing • Ecclesiastes 3:1 — “To everything there is a season…” The season for Samuel could not be rushed. • Psalm 27:14 — “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous.” Hannah embodies this call. • Galatians 4:4 — “When the fullness of time had come, God sent His Son.” Samuel’s arrival foreshadows divine timing ultimately displayed in Christ. Assurances of God’s Provision • 1 Samuel 1:19-20 records God’s response: “The LORD remembered her… she conceived and bore a son.” • Philippians 4:19 — “My God will supply all your needs.” Needs include the longings of the heart surrendered to Him. • Romans 8:32 — He who gave His own Son will “freely give us all things” necessary for His purposes. Parallel Encouragements in Scripture • Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, and Elizabeth all experienced delayed childbirth (Genesis 21; 25; 30; Luke 1). Each delay served a redemptive purpose larger than personal desire. • Proverbs 3:5-6 calls believers to “trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Hannah’s straightened path emerges after surrender, not before. • Isaiah 40:31 promises renewed strength for those who wait; Hannah’s strength yields a prophetic song in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. Living the Lesson Today • Rise up from discouragement and approach God honestly. • Anchor requests in God’s character and covenant promises. • Accept that God’s “remembering” may include seasons of preparation unseen to us. • Walk away from prayer with the confidence that what is placed in His hands is secure, then continue faithful in daily duties. Hannah’s example in 1 Samuel 1:9 reassures believers that God’s timing is perfect and His provision sure, producing joy not only for the individual but for generations to come. |
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