Hannah’s Prayer For A Child

Hannah was in deep anguish, crying bitterly as she prayed to the LORD. And she made this vow: “O LORD of Heaven’s Armies, if you will look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer and give me a son, then I will give him back to you. He will be yours for his entire lifetime, and as a sign that he has been dedicated to the LORD, his hair will never be cut.”

1 Samuel 1:10-11

Hannah, who was childless, lived in a time when women were dishonored if they were unable to bear children. Hannah’s rival—her husband’s other wife—flaunted her own children before her. When the whole family went up to Jerusalem for the feast, Hannah found herself unable to join in the celebration. Instead, she went into the Tabernacle and expressed her deep sorrow and longings to God. She knew whom to turn to when she was down. She knew the Almighty was the only one who could help her. She didn’t arrogantly demand that God give her a son. Instead, she expressed her willingness to give back to God.

What is the cry of your heart? Have you brought it before God? Are you willing to give the answer to your prayer to him?

• O Lord, look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer . . .