Inspirational Hannah

“I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD."  1 Samuel 1:27-28a (NIV)

From the moment of Samuel’s birth, Hannah knew she had little time to love and train him. At about age three she took her only child to the temple and left him with Eli, the priest. Those years had passed extremely fast. She faithfully followed through with her vow to God.

After that, she only saw him once a year when she and her husband went for the annual sacrifice. Each year she took Samuel a new robe (1 Samuel 2:19). Cutting the material and then sewing the seams probably gave her great joy as she thought about her son.

I feel sorrow for Hannah that she had to give up Samuel while he was so young. Most mothers have their children for about eighteen years and even then regret the separation. But in chapter two of I Samuel, she rejoices in her wonderful God. I don’t read of her expressing any sorrow, anger, or regret—only joy.

There are lessons to learn from Hannah: Look to God for the help we need. Take advantage of the time we have with our children. Follow through with any promise. Rejoice that we have a marvelous God. Give our children to God for His safe keeping.

Peace comes when we trust God with our children.