Hannah had a
rival because her husband had another wife, one who bore children. So Hannah
was deeply grieved and wept in prayer continually. Her desire was strong and
she was willing to devote the child that would be born wholly to God. She would
claim no ownership over the child she so desperately wanted.
Even being
accused of drunkenness (1:14-16) by the priest did not overly concern Hannah
because her desire was so strong. And it all came to pass according to the
prophetic word spoken over her by Eli (1:17). She had a son, Samuel, and he was
dedicated to the Lord after a few years of nurturing and weaning (1:21-24).
Hannah shows
us a mother’s heart but we can also see something of a soulwinner’s heart in
her. She knew she was loved (ie, by God) but yearned passionately for
fruitfulness (ie, souls). When we see various sports, hobbies and social causes
recruiting people by the hundreds, do we feel provoked? Does it make us even
more determined to win the lost for Jesus?
Hannah wept
and laboured in prayer for this goal (see Ps 126:5,6). When her prayer was
answered, she carefully and lovingly nurtured the child (discipleship) and then
released him for God’s service, but still keeping in touch on a regular basis.
May we have
the same passion for souls that Hannah had for children! Even as God blessed
Hannah with other sons and daughters (1 Sam 2:21) may the Lord bring other souls
to those who have soul-winner’s hearts.
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