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THE LORD ANSWERED HANNAH’S PRAYER
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4
1 Samuel 1:19-28

Psalm 31:1-5

 

“…thou hast redeemed me,

O LORD God of truth.”

 

THE LORD ANSWERED HANNAH’S PRAYER
 
The answer to Hannah’s prayer began with Eli, the priest. Eli had mistaken her for being drunk when he saw her. Hannah explained and then Eli understood why she prayed thus. He then wished her well, and said that the God of Israel would grant her the petition she asked of Him.
 
The words of Eli were an added encouragement to Hannah. She was happy that she found grace in his sight, “and her countenance was no more sad” (1 Sam 1:18). Early the following morning in Shiloh, they rose up and worshipped the Lord before returning to their home in Ramah. Then, “the LORD remembered her” (1 Sam 1:19), and Hannah conceived and bore a son and called his name Samuel, meaning one who had been asked of the Lord. When the child was still a baby, Hannah did not go to Shiloh to worship as they would usually do annually. She remained at home to nurse the baby, till he was weaned. She explained herself and her intentions to her husband. He understood her and gave her leave to do as she wished. It was then a time of joy and blessing for Hannah. She waited until the baby was weaned.
 
When the child was weaned, Hannah honoured her vow to the Lord, showing her commitment to God. Now that the child was able to live independently, she was confident that he would perform well. She believed that all were possible with the Lord. The presentation ceremony was elaborate as she had to offer sacrifices. This was the standard offering and the quantity in Hannah’s offering shows how much she valued the occasion. She offered the bullock and brought the child to Eli the priest. She identified herself formally to the priest and revealed her identity. She told him that she was the woman who had stood there by him praying to the Lord. She declared that she was praying for a child and the Lord had answered her. She also told the priest that she had lent him to the Lord. Thus, Hannah worshipped the Lord. It was a happy occasion for everyone.
 
THOUGHT: The Lord knows my sincerity when I pray.

PRAYER: Father, teach me to pray in faith always.

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