Hannah

"Grace or Favor"

Hannah

Day 17

Hannah was one of the two wives of Elkanah, but unlike his other wife, Peninnah, she was unable to bear children. In a time when fertility was seen as a sign of God’s blessing (Deuteronomy 28:18), Hannah’s barrenness brought her deep sorrow and shame. Yet, she did not lose faith. She fervently cried out to the Lord in prayer, so much so that the priest Eli mistook her for being drunk. Undeterred, she continued to seek God earnestly and made a solemn vow: if He blessed her with a son, she would dedicate him back to the Lord. God heard her cry, opened her womb, and erased her shame. In due time, she gave birth to Samuel and faithfully fulfilled her promise by dedicating him to God’s service.

Biblical Reference(s): 1 Samuel 1 & 2

We learn from this woman's life:

• God hears and answers prayer – “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3) Hannah’s story reminds us that God listens to the cries of His people and responds in His perfect timing.

• God turns mourning into joy – “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.” (Psalm 30:11) Hannah’s deep sorrow transformed into rejoicing when God blessed her with a son.

• Hannah’s name means grace (favor) – She was highly favored by God, and His grace allowed her to conceive and give birth to Samuel. Her story is a testament to the power of divine favor in the lives of those who trust in Him.

• Delight in the Lord, and He will align your desires with His – “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4) As Hannah poured out her heart in prayer, her desires became aligned with God’s will, leading to His abundant blessing.

• God prepares a table for you in the presence of your enemies – “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” (Psalm 23:5) Hannah did not allow Peninnah’s taunts to shake her faith. Instead, she kept her focus on God, who ultimately exalted her and blessed her beyond measure.

About the writer: Dr. Na is a Lover of Jesus, Wife, Mother, Pastor, Counselor, and loves to laugh, and dance.

© 2025 by Dr. Naomi Mitchell. All Rights Reserved.