“But in due time Hannah conceived, and bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD.”
Context:The book of 1 Samuel begins with the story of Hannah, who was one of the two wives of Elkanah. Hannah faced the heart-wrenching struggle of infertility and longed for a child. She earnestly prayed to the Lord for a son, making a vow that if her prayer was answered, she would dedicate her child to the Lord’s service.
God’s Timing:The phrase “in due time” highlights the sovereignty of God and His perfect timing. Despite Hannah’s years of barrenness, God heard her heartfelt prayers and eventually granted her the desire of her heart. This reminds us that God’s plans often unfold according to His timetable, which may differ from our own. We are called to trust in His wisdom and faithfulness while waiting for His answers to our prayers.
Hannah’s Conception:Hannah’s fervent prayers were answered, and she conceived a child. This miraculous conception showcases God’s power over natural limitations and His ability to bring forth life where it seemed impossible. It emphasizes that God is the author of life and has the authority to intervene in the affairs of humanity.
The Name Samuel:When Hannah gave birth to a son, she named him Samuel, which means “heard by God” or “asked of God.” The name serves as a testament to Hannah’s faith and gratitude for God’s gracious response to her prayers. It also signifies the significant role Samuel would play in the history of Israel as a prophet, priest, and judge.
Acknowledging God’s Blessings:By naming her son Samuel and declaring, “Because I have asked him of the LORD,” Hannah acknowledged that Samuel was a direct answer to her prayers. This highlights the importance of recognizing God’s hand in our lives and giving Him credit for the blessings we receive. It serves as a reminder that our requests should be brought before the Lord in faith, knowing that He is attentive and responsive to our needs.
Lessons for us:
- Persistence in Prayer:Hannah’s story encourages us to persevere in prayer, even in the face of challenges and delays. She continued to seek God’s intervention, pouring out her heart before Him without giving up. We, too, should approach God with persistence, trusting that He hears and will answer according to His perfect will.
- Trusting in God’s Timing:Hannah’s journey demonstrates the importance of trusting in God’s timing. Although it took years for her to conceive, she did not lose faith. Likewise, we should remain patient, understanding that God’s plans for our lives may require waiting, but He is always working for our good.
- Dedication and Surrender:Hannah’s vow to dedicate her son Samuel to the Lord’s service reveals her deep commitment and surrender to God’s purposes. It challenges us to offer our lives and the lives of our loved ones to God, recognizing that they ultimately belong to Him. This involves trusting God with their future and allowing Him to guide their paths.
In summary, 1 Samuel 1:20 highlights the faithfulness of God, the power of prayer, and the importance of acknowledging God’s blessings in our lives. It encourages us to persist in prayer, trust in God’s timing, and surrender our lives to His purposes.
