MEMORY VERSE:
“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).

TEXT: 1 Samuel 1:1-28; 2:1-11

This study introduces us to the historical book of First Samuel. The events recorded in the book began as Israel prepared to make the transition of leadership from the rule of the judges to the reign of kings. The last judge before this time was Samson, who died without achieving total victory over the Philistines. The book of First Samuel opens with the account of the birth of Samuel who was both a prophet and the last judge in Israel before the setting up of the monarchy. It would be recalled that the period of the judges was marked by laxity, impunity and anarchy because there was no king in Israel and everyone did that which was right in their eyes (Judges 21:25). The nation had sunk into spiritual decay and destitution (1 Samuel 3:1). That was the background when the story in our text happened.

In this introduction to the story of Hannah, we observe the way believers should respond to life’s challenges, the proper attitude in times of ridicule, and how to handle issues of unexpected delays in answer to prayer. One unchanging truth in this lesson is that prayer changes things.

DEPARTURE FROM GOD’S PERFECT WILL AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

(1 Samuel 1:1-8; Genesis 4:19,23; 29:23-35; 30:1-24; Judges 8:30,31; 9:1-5; 1 Kings 11:1-10; Matthew 19:8; Romans 7:1-3)

Our text opens with the marriage and family life of the parents of Samuel. It was a religious but polygamous setting because Elkanah had two wives Hannah and Peninnah. Hannah, though loved by her husband, was barren but Peninnah had sons and daughters. Every year, this family attended the annual feast in Shiloh to worship God.

After the normal peace offerings at the festival, the family would gather to eat their portion of the sacrifice. Elkanah, being the head of the family, would divide portions for all the members. He gave Peninnah and her children their portions, but he gave a worthy or double portion to Hannah. Though that kind gesture was intended to assuage her pain of having no children, it made Peninnah jealous and she began to deride Hannah.

Consequently, there was family trouble and the festival, which was meant to be a time of joyful celebration, was turned into a period of strife and sorrow. As in all polygamous marriages, Elkanah could not remain impartial towards his two wives. He loved Hannah more and showed greater affection to her. In reaction, Peninnah became an adversary to Hannah and provoked her to the point she lost appetite and wept. Her grief robbed the family of the joy and excitement of being in God’s presence in Shiloh, and this happened annually.

Deviation from God’s perfect plan in marriage always has consequences. Elkanah’s attempt to help Hannah overcome her grief complicated matters and he was helpless over Peninnah’s vicious provocation. Believers should avoid all forms of deviations in marriage. Polygamy, polyandry, levirate marriage, divorce and remarriage, etc., are contrary to God’s will and should be avoided.

Despite his shortcoming, Elkanah ensured he led the entire family in the religious pilgrimage to Shiloh yearly. This was in obedience to God’s commandment to the Jews. Husbands should learn to assume responsibility for the spiritual development of their families. They must know the way, show the way, and walk the way in order to properly lead other family members aright.

Besides giving Hannah a worthy portion, Elkanah spoke lovingly to her during her grief: “…am not I better to thee than ten sons?” (verse 8). Couples should not compound their problems when there are challenges in the family. Rather, they should unite in faith and pray for divine intervention.

DEVOTION, PIETY AND PRAYER OF HANNAH

(1 Samuel 1:9-28; 2 Chronicles 33:12,13; Psalms 18:3; 55:16; 116:1-14; 50:15; 86:7; Luke 1:5-13; 22:44; James 5:13; 1 Samuel 17:26-29; Numbers 32:1-23; Joshua 22:11-34; 1 Peter 4:14-16)

Hannah was a woman of faith who did not allow her challenge to hinder her from going to Shiloh yearly. She realised that being a devoted worshipper of God does not necessarily exempt one from earthly challenges. Therefore, she continued in her devotion to God and took her burden to Him in prayer.

She withdrew from the crowd into a place of personal prayer. Whereas others could have turned to some prayer charlatans or occult alternatives, she decided to go to God. Her action demonstrated her faith in God as she refused to give in to self-pity, discouragement or resentment. The delay in conception sparked holy desperation in prayer for divine intervention.

Hannah’s prayer demonstrated several qualities of effective praying. First, it was sincere, not offered with feigned words. Second, it was simple. Like Samson’s prayer or the thief on the cross, Hannah prayed, “remember me” (1 Samuel 1:11; Judges 16:28; Luke 23:42). Third, it was specific. Her request was not vague but definite. She asked for a male child for a definite purpose. Fourth, the prayer was selfless. She did not ask for a child just for the sake of it or merely to level up with her rival, but a child that would fill the gap in God’s house. Fifth, Hannah’s prayer was scriptural. What she asked agreed with the word of God. Sixth, her request was spiritual in focus. Seventh, the prayer was made with steadfast perseverance. She continued praying until she had assurance of answer (1 Samuel 1:12; Luke 18:1; Ephesians 6:18).

In the Old Testament dispensation, it was customary for people to make vows to God as part of their devotion in prayer. The first recorded vow in the Scripture was that of Jacob (Genesis 28:20; 31:13). Such vows were usually promises to do something they felt would please God in exchange for a benefit they desired. It was not considered a bargain but a solemn promise to do something extra for God because of a feeling of desperation before Him.

In Hannah’s case, she requested a male child and vowed that he would be a perpetual Nazarite to God. There were specific regulations concerning vows in the Old Testament (Leviticus 27:1-34; Numbers 6:1-27; 30:1-16; Psalm 76:11; Ecclesiastes 5:4,5; Malachi 1:14). For Hannah’s vow to stand, her husband had to uphold it; otherwise, it would be invalid. Moreover, she would have to bring up and convince her son to accept the vow she made for him before conception. Her vow revealed her true motive.

In the New Testament dispensation, vows are rarely mentioned. Believers in Christ have better promises and a more definite filial relationship with God. God’s promises cover all our needs, and we should simply pray in faith and receive what our Father gives freely. Vows are not prohibited, but they must not become bargaining tools or replace simple faith.

Hannah’s response to Peninnah’s reproach and Eli’s sharp remark proved she was godly. To Peninnah’s taunting, she prayed; to Eli’s harsh comment, she exercised restraint and explained herself. When misunderstood, believers should offer explanations lest their good be evil spoken of.

After Hannah’s explanation, Eli pronounced a benediction on her. She believed God and His prophet and her countenance brightened. By the fruit of her lips, she reaped life (Proverbs 18:21; Colossians 4:6).

DIVINE RESPONSE TO HANNAH’S FERVENT PRAYER

(1 Samuel 1:19,20; Genesis 30:22,23; Judges 13:3; 2 Kings 4:17; 2 Chronicles 20:12-25; 32:20-23; Psalms 5:3; 34:6-10, 15-19; Luke 1:24,25; 1 John 5:14,15; Luke 1:24)

The Lord remembered Hannah following her intense supplication. She became pregnant and the Lord miraculously gave her a male child (verses 11,19). Thus, her sorrow turned to joy. Hannah’s story offers hope to contemporary believers. God hears and acts according to the demands of the righteous. “…The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles” (Psalm 34:15, 17).

God’s unfailing promises, ability, authority and sovereignty should inspire confidence in Christians that He will intervene at the right time (Psalm 62:5-8; Habakkuk 2:3; Romans 8:25; Hebrews 10:35,36; James 1:3,4). With God, delay is not denial. “Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived…” (1 Samuel 1:20).

When the child was weaned, “…she took him up with her… and brought him unto the house of the LORD in Shiloh…” (1 Samuel 1:24). Hannah’s joyful attitude and generous presentation of Samuel teach believers to be joyful when presenting valuable gifts to God. Like Hannah, we should perform our vows against all odds. “Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD…” (1 Samuel 1:28).

A DEEP-FELT PRAISE AND GOD’S ATTRIBUTE EXTOLLED

(1 Samuel 2:1-11; John 4:23,24; Psalms 139:7-9; 147:5; 99:4; Daniel 4:35; Deuteronomy 3:24; Jude 20-24; Revelation 20:1-15)

“And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD…” (1 Samuel 2:1). The song was a spontaneous prayer of thanksgiving, praise and honour to God for His goodness. Inspired by the Spirit, Hannah extolled God’s omnipotence, omniscience, sovereignty, and unmatched holiness. She praised the One who strengthens the humble and undermines the proud.

She declared that God lifts the poor from the dust and the beggar from the dunghill to positions of honour. Notably, Hannah ascribed all glory to God alone. Many today attribute blessings to ministers instead of giving glory to God who “doeth great things and unsearchable” (Job 5:9).

Hannah extolled God’s holiness. “There is none holy as the LORD…” Holiness is God’s outstanding attribute. He commanded Israel to be holy because He is holy (Leviticus 11:44,45; 19:2; 20:7,26; Ezekiel 39:7; 1 Peter 1:16). Holiness is indispensable, “…without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).

She also described God as “the God of knowledge”, the all-knowing One who sees the end from the beginning. He knows what is best for His people and guides them accordingly.

The closing part of Hannah’s song is prophetic. “He will keep the feet of his saints…” This assures believers of God’s keeping power. Those who trust Him will not be overcome. The overconfident are warned that by strength shall no man prevail.

“The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken…” Judgment awaits all unrepentant sinners at the Great White Throne Judgment. Hannah concluded with a messianic prophecy about Christ’s millennial reign.

“And Elkanah went to Ramah… And the child did minister…” (1 Samuel 2:11). Samuel grew up to become a prophet and a mighty instrument in God’s hand. This outcome brought immense joy to Hannah, reflected in her prophetic song of praise. Those who hope to praise God throughout life should dedicate themselves and their families to His service.

Questions for Review

1. Point out the consequences of polygamy.

2. What virtues can couples learn from the family life of Elkanah?

3. Mention steps believers can take when they are confronted with life’s challenges.

4. What is the place of vows in the New Testament dispensation?

5. What can believers learn from the wrong rebuke of Hannah by Eli?

6. How can believers receive answers to their prayers?

7. Outline any two reasons to support early encounter of a child with the Lord.