Trust God Always
Monday, January 2
Trust God Always
And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord. 1 Samuel 2:21
The story of Hannah is one that many of us can relate to. We’re in a difficult situation, yet despite our persistent prayers, it doesn’t get better. Hannah was one of two wives of Elkanah and couldn’t conceive children, but Peninnah, the other wife, could and boy did she rub it in. God’s Word says Peninnah “would provoke her bitterly to irritate her” (1 Samuel 1:6). In biblical culture, bearing children for a woman was critical because they would be the ones to care for you.
Hannah’s pain drove her to tears—so much so that she was accused of being drunk at the temple when she was crying out to God for a child!
I suspect you’ve been in a position like this as well. The problem wasn’t that the situation got worse—nothing changed for Hannah. Doubts most likely crept into her head if her husband would continue to love her.
Can you appreciate how Hannah must have felt?
Even though her situation didn’t change she put her trust, hope and belief in God. The point to this story is that Hannah persevered year after year—overcoming her worries through both prayer and worship. This year may this response be your number one and final choice. Prayer and worship. Despite the silence, keep talking to God.
As we read more in 1 Samuel we understand that God was bringing Hannah to the point where she was willing to give back to God the very thing she wanted most—her son Samuel. The only way Hannah would be moved to this place of surrender was through her painful barrenness. Hannah promised the Lord that she would give Him Samuel if He would open her womb. He did, and she kept her vow. And God blessed Hannah with five more children (1 Samuel 2:21).
Today, tomorrow, this year, if there is something specific that you are worried about, consider going to the Lord and willingly give it up or give it back to Him. Oftentimes, God is waiting for you to trust Him before He will move.