How can we support those facing similar trials as Hannah today? Key Verse “Because the LORD had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival would provoke her and taunt her severely.” (1 Samuel 1:6) Recognizing Today’s Hannahs • Those longing for children yet facing infertility or miscarriage • Singles yearning for marriage but waiting long past expectations • Parents praying for prodigals, aching over an “empty nest” of a different kind • Anyone who feels overlooked while others prosper and “Peninnahs” rub salt in the wound Listening Before Speaking • Romans 12:15 — “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” – Sit with them in the pain. Tears often say more than sermons. • Proverbs 10:19 — “When words are many, sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” – Guard against quick fixes (“Just relax and it will happen”) or careless theology (“Maybe you lack faith”). Practical Ways to Stand Beside Them • Offer consistent presence: a coffee date, a text on difficult calendar days (Mother’s Day, due dates, anniversaries). • Provide tangible help during medical treatments—meals, rides, childcare for appointments. • Protect them socially: give private heads-up before baby showers or pregnancy announcements; respect a polite decline. • Partner in prayer without pressure. Ask, “How can I pray this week?” then follow through quietly. Words That Heal: Scripture to Share • Psalm 34:18 — “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.” • Isaiah 54:1 — “Sing, O barren woman… for more are the children of the desolate than of her who has a husband.” • 1 Samuel 1:17 — “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant the petition you have asked of Him.” • Galatians 6:2 — “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Share passages in a note or card so they can linger over them in private.) Guarding Our Hearts from Peninnah-Like Attitudes • Refuse comparison. Luke 6:31 calls us to treat others as we want to be treated. • Celebrate blessings without flaunting them. Romans 12:10 reminds us to “outdo one another in showing honor.” • Repent quickly if jealousy or smugness surfaces. 1 John 1:9 promises forgiveness and cleansing. Trusting God’s Timing Together • Hannah’s story moves from anguish (1 Samuel 1:10) to worship (1 Samuel 1:19–20) even before she holds Samuel. • Encourage one another to rest in Psalm 27:14 — “Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!” • Remind them—and yourself—that every unanswered longing is ultimately met in Christ, “the hope that does not disappoint” (Romans 5:5). Living the Lesson When we draw near, listen well, and carry burdens in prayer and practical service, we become evidence that God still sees and cares for every modern Hannah. |
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