Sorrow

Wednesday, January 26

Sorrow

I am a woman of sorrowful spirit. 1 Samuel 1:15

Perhaps life began differently, perhaps she’d been carefree as a child; maybe as a young bride she’d beamed with joy. But things had gone badly for Hannah. Her womb was closed, her desire to become a mother was unfulfilled and to make matters worse her home was troubled by another woman. She had become a woman of sorrowful spirit.

Yet, it is Hannah’s response to this sorrow that makes her all the more interesting. In 1 Samuel 1, Hannah took her burdens to the Lord in earnest prayer and gained assurance of God’s concern and care. God, through the priest Eli, offered an encouraging word and change began to happen. According to 1 Samuel 1:18, Hannah got up, changed her attitude, and left with joy. Her circumstances had not yet changed, but she had changed—and God had given her hope.

Sorrow can be a stepping stone to happiness as we discover God’s faithfulness through challenging times. If you have a sorrowful spirit, take your burdens to the Lord Jesus. He knows how to give us beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (Isaiah 61:3).

Today, cling to hope the way Hannah did in 1 Samuel. Be confident because God will never leave you hanging out to dry; He will carry and protect you all the days of your life. Stay steady in the word and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. He is our safe haven.

Prayer for today: Lord, thank you that in all we go through You are always there to hear our cry. Amen