Hannah’s Song ∙

Hannah’s Song ∙

For all the earth is the LORD’s, and he has set the world in order. – 1 Samuel 2:8

1 Samuel 2:1-10

 1 Then Hannah prayed: My heart rejoices in the LORD! The LORD has made me strong. Now I have an answer for my enemies; I rejoice because you rescued me.

 2 No one is holy like the LORD! There is no one besides you; there is no Rock

 6 The LORD gives both death and life; he brings some down to the grave but raises others up.

 7 The LORD makes some poor and others rich; he brings some down and lifts others up.

 10 Those who fight against the LORD will be shattered. He thunders against them from heaven; the LORD judges throughout the earth. He gives power to his king; he increases the strength of his anointed one.

Dogs are renowned for their loyalty and companionship, expressing gratitude and affection in unique ways despite their inability to speak. They communicate emotions through body language, such as a wagging tail, joyful panting, relaxed postures, snuggling, and licking their owner’s face.

Beyond these physical signs, dogs demonstrate thankfulness through actions like bringing a toy to their owner or shadowing them from room to room, showcasing their love and appreciation. Each dog has its distinct methods of expressing affection and gratitude, which they do with enthusiasm.

Thankfulness is a joyful and uplifting emotion. In a similar vein, the Father has provided humans with a way to express gratitude through prayer.

In 1 Samuel 2:1-10, known as the “Song of Hannah,” Hannah, the mother of Samuel, sings a song of thanksgiving and praise. She expresses her gratitude to the Father for answering her prayers by granting her a son, whom she dedicates to His service. Hannah acknowledges the Father’s power and grace, giving thanks for her blessings. Her song is a profound expression of faith and gratitude.

Hannah begins by proclaiming that the Lord is her rock, fortress, and savior, and she fears nothing with the Lord by her side. In 1 Samuel 2:3-5, she contrasts the Lord’s power and wisdom with the weakness and folly, noting how He brings down the mighty and elevates the humble.

Hannah gets very personal and declares that the Father brings joy to the barren woman, making her a joyful mother. She acknowledges that the Lord judges the earth and empowers those He chooses.

In 1 Samuel 2:9-10, Hannah concludes her song by proclaiming that the Lord protects His faithful ones while bringing judgment upon the wicked. She emphasizes that the Father’s reach is never too short to save, and He is the ultimate judge of the earth.

This passage highlights Hannah’s profound faith in God and her thankfulness for His blessings. She acknowledges that God governs the world and supports those who place their trust in Him, highlighting His unmatched power and might. Her song exemplifies the devotion and trust in God celebrated in the Bible, encouraging others to cultivate similar faith and confidence in Him.

Overall, this passage beautifully expresses faith and gratitude, with Hannah recognizing the Lord’s power and grace and giving thanks for the blessings she has received.

REFLECT & PRAY

A life without thankfulness lacks love and passion. Hope without gratitude misses the subtleties of life. Faith, when not paired with thankfulness, loses its strength and resilience. Every virtue, when separated from gratitude, is hindered and struggles on the spiritual path.

Father, thank You for being sovereign. You are gracious and all-powerful. You intervene in the space-time continuum to achieve Your purpose and will. May Your will be done on earth as it is.

INSIGHT

Hannah’s inability to have children brought deep sorrow, especially in ancient Israel, where a woman’s identity and self-worth were closely tied to bearing children. Her barrenness subjected her to relentless teasing and mockery, making her the target of harsh bullying year after year.

1 Samuel 1:6-7

 6 So Peninnah would taunt Hannah and make fun of her because the LORD had kept her from having children.

 7 Year after year, it was the same – Peninnah would taunt Hannah as they went to the Tabernacle. Each time, Hannah would be reduced to tears and would not even eat.

Throughout history, countless women have endured similar hardships and heartaches as Hannah, who serves as a model for overcoming such adversity. She remained steadfast in her faith, trusting the Father and pouring out her heart in tearful prayers. The Father heard her cries and graciously answered her prayers.

1 Samuel 2:8 The foundations of the earth belong to the LORD, and he has placed the world on them.

In ancient times, many cultures, including Israel, believed pillars supported the earth. This notion reflects the Father’s ultimate control over the world and its inhabitants. He shapes history and provides hope and comfort to those who trust in Him.

The Hebrew term matsuq is translated as “pillars.” Matsuq refers to an upright pillar, a tall, vertical, cylindrical structure. It is used for support. Hence, the earth itself. It is reasonable to translate “The LORD is the owner of the foundations on which the world sits” or, as CEV has translated the last two lines together, “You set the world on foundations, and they belong to you” (UBS).

Psalms 24:1 The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.

“Since he created the world and maintains it, God has the power and the right to intervene in its affairs and rearrange the fortunes of men according to his sovereign will” (James E. Smith). As the designer, creator, and owner of the world, the Father has sovereignty over it. What happens on planet Earth is under His watchful care.

This comforting fact is the centerpiece of Hannah’s faith and confidence. She poured out her heart and humbly requested the Father’s intervention in her life. She was overjoyed and grateful when the Father answered her prayer and blessed her with the birth of Samuel. With a thankful heart, she sang praises to Him, acknowledging His power to rearrange the fortunes of people and His gracious provision in her life.

Hannah demonstrates in-depth knowledge and comprehension of the Father’s character, lovingkindness, and mighty works. She knows what God is like as a person.

That is the foundation of her faith and song.

“We can smile at our enemies when we remember that we serve a God who takes great delight in saving and redeeming us. When we rejoice in the Lord, and not merely in His blessings, we find a joy known nowhere else” (Stanley).

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© Dr. H 2024