Sermon Notes

Introduction

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers and women! We celebrate you today and thank God for your love, sacrifice, and hard work. Today’s message is inspired by a woman in the Old Testament whose story of faith, endurance, and patience serves as a wonderful example for both women and men today.

Quote Zone

There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.

Washington Irving

The Situation

Hannah’s tears and anguish were the result of years of frustration stemming from the unfulfilled hope of one day becoming a mother, further compounded by the constant bullying from Peninnah year after year.

What is overwhelming you with frustration and grief today? Whether the tears are flowing from your eyes or the pain is concealed deep inside you, unable to be expressed, Let us reflect on the following lessons from Hannah’s story of pain and hope.

The Problem –
Avoid fixating on what you don’t have – v6-8

“Hannah, why are you weeping? Why don’t you eat? Why are you downhearted? Don’t I mean more to you than ten sons?”

• In a patriarchal society, women without children, especially those without a male child, often find themselves in a vulnerable position both financially and socially.  
• Peninnah recognised that she was in a much better position than Hannah because she had sons and daughters. She chose to boast about her superiority and mock Hannah for her childlessness. 
• Elkanah encouraged Hannah by reminding her that, despite not having children, she was greatly loved and cherished by her husband.

Application: Like Hannah, we often focus on what we lack and what is missing in our lives, overlooking the things for which we should be grateful. While we may not have everything we desire, there are still many reasons to appreciate the blessings we do have.

The Solution –
Don’t let your tears keep you from God – v9-11

So, Hannah ate. Then she pulled herself together, slipped away quietly, and entered the sanctuary. (MSG)

• Hannah’s example is significant; despite her pain and frustration, she consistently showed up at the temple and prayed to God. 
• Sometimes, we let our life challenges keep us from praying and communicating with God. However, Hannah teaches us the importance of maintaining our prayer life, even during difficult seasons.

*Be cautious about rushing to judgments or criticizing another person’s emotional expressions of frustration, or demonstrative worship – v12-15 (See also Luke 7:36-39)

Application: Don’t let your problems keep you away from God and the church. Remember, the church is a hospital for the sick, weary, and tired, providing hope and strength for our journey. Prayer changes situations and transforms people.

The Celebration –
God’s timing is undefeated – v12-20

Before the year was out, Hannah had conceived and given birth to a son. She named him Samuel, explaining, “I asked the Lord for him.”

• After years of frustration, bullying, and tears, Hannah’s prayer was answered when she gave birth to a son.
• Never underestimate the power and potential of prayer (James 5:16, James 4:2-3, Mark 11:24, Philippians 4:6-7, John 15:7, James 1:6)

Application ~ Hannah’s story is a testament to the power of prayer and God’s faithfulness and timing. Continue praying for those areas of barrenness, whatever they may be, and trust God to work on your behalf.

Questions

1)    The Bible mentions Elkanah, who had two wives: Peninnah and Hannah. How would you respond to someone who claims that having more than one wife is perfectly acceptable according to the Bible? Consider the context of Genesis 2:21-24 and Matthew 19:3-6.

2)    Hannah’s faith during her barrenness is a powerful message. How does her story resonate with you personally?

3)     Unfortunately, bullying still occurs in various forms today. How might Hannah have responded to Peninnah’s yearly taunts? How would you have dealt with this situation?

 4)     What relevance does the biblical perspective on Hannah’s barrenness have for modern-day struggles?

5)     Hannah’s story demonstrates the power of persistent prayer. How do you think this can inspire others?

6)     Hannah dedicated her child to the Lord, which must have been incredibly difficult. In what ways can we commit our children to the Lord? How can we return to God the blessings He has given us?