1 Samuel 1:20
Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the Lord.
1 Samuel 1:20 (KJV)
Context
The book of 1 Samuel opens with the story of Hannah, one of the two wives of Elkanah. She suffered from infertility and longed for a child. In deep distress, she prayed earnestly at the tabernacle in Shiloh and made a vow to the Lord. She promised that if He gave her a son, she would dedicate the child to His service for life (1 Samuel 1:11). Eli the priest saw her praying and blessed her, saying, “Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him” (1 Samuel 1:17). This verse records the fulfillment of that prayer. The Hebrew phrase for “when the time was come about” literally means “in the revolution of days,” indicating the completion of a full period, likely the normal duration of pregnancy. God’s answer came not in haste but at the appointed moment, showing His careful attention to Hannah’s request.
Meaning
The phrase “when the time was come about” means that the full period of pregnancy was completed. God answered Hannah’s prayer in His own perfect timing, not a moment too early or too late. The name Samuel sounds like the Hebrew word for “heard” or “asked.” By giving her son this name, Hannah declared, “Because I have asked him of the Lord.” She openly acknowledged that Samuel was a direct answer to her prayer and a gift from God. This naming was a public testimony of God’s faithfulness. The name itself served as a lasting reminder that God hears the cries of His people. Hannah did not keep this blessing private; she proclaimed its source for all to know.
Biblical connections
This event is part of a larger story. Samuel would grow up to become a prophet, priest, and judge in Israel. He would anoint the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David. Hannah’s song of praise in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 shows her deep gratitude and her understanding of God’s sovereign power. The birth of Samuel was not only a personal blessing for Hannah but also a key step in God’s plan for His people. God heard the prayer of a faithful woman and used her son to guide the nation. This birth also connects to Hannah’s earlier vow and Eli’s blessing, showing that God honors the commitments made in prayer. Samuel’s role in anointing kings would shape Israel’s history for generations, proving that God’s answers often carry purposes beyond our immediate joy.
Application
Hannah’s example teaches us to persist in prayer even when the answer seems delayed. She poured out her heart to God and did not give up. Her story also reminds us to trust in God’s timing. His plans may unfold differently than we expect, but He is always faithful. When God answers our prayers, we should follow Hannah’s example and give Him the credit. We can name our blessings with gratitude, remembering that every good gift comes from Him. This practice of acknowledgment keeps our hearts humble and our faith active. It also encourages others who are still waiting, as they see God’s faithfulness in our lives.
Persistence in prayer: Keep bringing your requests to God, even when you face delays or discouragement.
Trust in God’s timing: Believe that He knows the best time to answer, even when you must wait.
Dedication and surrender: Offer your life and the lives of your loved ones to God, knowing that they ultimately belong to Him.
Reflection
Hannah’s naming of Samuel shows that she never forgot what God had done. Her son’s name was a constant reminder of God’s answer to her prayer. In the same way, we can remember God’s faithfulness in our own lives. When we look back and see how He has worked, our faith is strengthened for the future. We can trust that the God who heard Hannah still hears the prayers of His people today. His care is personal, and His answers are part of a larger redemptive plan. Let us respond with gratitude and continue to bring our needs before Him, knowing that He is both willing and able to help.
