Bible Verse Synopsis 5-16-25

1st Samuel 1:

1st Samuel: Samuel speaks about his father, Elkanah, and the corruption he faced in his time. The corruption was obvious from verse 2’s first line. “And he had two wives…”. We know the Lord intended marriage to be between a single man and woman. Not multiple. The Devil seeks to corrupt us always and in many ways. Be careful what doors we open, some are harder to close than others. What door are you holding shut and which door need needs nailed closed? I have some of both…

Of Elkanah’s two wives, Hannah was barren and Peninnah was plentiful in the womb. Hannah was heckled by Peninnah. Verse 6 - “ And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the Lord has shut up her womb.” This was done every year as Elkanah offered sacrifices to the Tabernacle, according to the Law of Moses, and gave portions for all of his. The many from Peninnah and a worthy portion for Hannah alone. This seems to only have matters worse for Hannah. She would not eat and wept. Elkanah was oblivious to his sin with multiple wives and still practiced as though he committed no sin here! How truly shameful are we as men at the clear mistakes we make, and we do nothing about them. Hannah’s womb had been shut by God, but why? Her husband asks the same question.

Hannah then found a seat in the Temple. Verse 10 - “And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayer unto the Lord, and wept sore.” A sad prayer with despair and maybe even desperation. Have you ever prayed this way? She vows to give a son to God and dedicate Him to the Lord’s service from birth if only she could have one son. The High Priest marked her mouth as drunk as she prayed silently. Often times these are the most powerful prayers. Hannah responded obviously offended “And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine note strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the Lord.” - Verse 15. The High Priest told her that her prayer had been heard. She then left the Temple. Returned home on the morrow and was found by God. Have you ever stoped and poured out your soul to God? Has that reflective practice ever helped you? Has He answered these type of prayers for you?

Hannah delays going to the Tabernacle with Samuel until he is 5 years old (ish). She knows that once he goes, he will be gone forever and dedicated according to her vow. Weaning him before choosing this path was selfless and we come to know Hannah always was. She gave the Old Law its due and turned Samuel over to the Temple. Hannah knows this was only possible through God. What is possible is your life only through Him?