Hannah’s Request
‘Hannah prayed and said: “My heart rejoices in the LORD… I rejoice in Your salvation.”’ – 1 Samuel 2:1
When have you really wanted something? We all know what it feels like to long for something desperately, it could be a job, a relationship, a sense of purpose, or a friend to connect with.
In the Bible Hannah desired something with every fibre of her being, she craved a child and this yearning caused her deep pain. The Bible says Hannah finally went to the temple to seek the Lord’s help.
There she prayed… and wept in anguish. — 1 Samuel 1:10
You most like know the story. When Eli the priest saw her praying, he accused her of being drunk. Hannah explained she was full of sorrow, not wine:
[I] have poured out my soul before the LORD… Out of the abundance of my complaint and grief, I have spoken. — 1 Samuel 1:15–16
Taken aback, Eli then blessed Hannah and asked the Lord to grant her request.
Eventually, Hannah got her happy ending: a son, then five more children.
When you deeply long for something and pour out your heart to God, do you finish with gratitude, knowing He has heard you?
Or do you wait until you receive before giving thanks?
Be thankful, for the God of all creation hears your prayers, just as He heard Hannah’s.