The Life of Hannah
Based on a message by Ps. Sharon on January 9, 2019
Blog by Suzy Mirabella
Not all of us can relate to Hannah’s desperate desire to have a child, but we can all relate to having some sort of deep dream or desire; many of us have even harbored such a dream for years. Imagine not only living with that unfulfilled dream, but constantly being reminded about it by someone that was less than kind. This is where Hannah was, and in one way or another, I think we can all understand how she felt. There are some valuable lessons we can learn from the life of Hannah…
Don’t Let Bitterness Take Root in Your Life
Bitter moments are unavoidable, but bitterness is a choice. In our lifetime each of us will encounter some seasons that can make or break us. Let’s be honest, bitterness is a sneaky little monster that if left unchallenged, can erode the tenderness of our hearts and rob us of the joy and peace God so freely gives. Hannah did not let the heartbreak of her disappointment consume her. She surrendered it all to God in prayer.
Don’t Let Offense In
In today’s world, everywhere you look there can be news stories, or social media posts telling us about some sort of offense that has taken place. Our culture is drawn to offense. I love that this story shows such a relatable encounter between Hannah and Eli. In the midst of her despair, while she is still struggling, Eli assumes Hannah is drunk! Can you even imagine? I mean, I can certainly understand Hannah feeling justifiably offended. Instead, she doesn’t put Eli in his place, rebuke him, or walk away and give up. She graciously offers correction; this woman is amazing! You don’t have to look hard to find offense causing situations, but we always get to choose our response.
“Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God.” Romans 12:2 MSG
Offense and Bitterness are brothers that feed off each other. By leaning on God’s continual strength and mercy, we can be like Hannah and refuse to let offense into our lives.
Don’t Look at Man to Answer What Only God Can
I am so encouraged by this story of a beautiful and brave woman who was not afraid to seek the Lord’s presence in the midst of her broken heart. I love that Hannah did not shy away when she came into God’s presence. She laid it all out there at the feet of her Father.
“Crushed in soul, Hannah prayed to God and cried and cried—inconsolably” 1 Samuel 1:10 MSG
She poured out her soul and became vulnerable with the only One who could provide the desires of her heart. I think it is so important to surround ourselves with people that are going to support and encourage us. It is always good for us to call up our girlfriends or talk to our spouse about the things weighing on us, BUT we always need to remember that we are so deeply loved by the One that is able meet all of our needs.
I encourage you today to continue to step into the rest of this year like Hannah, beautiful and brave. Let’s refuse to let bitterness take root in our hearts – let’s live our lives offense free, and remember to look to God for all our answers.