Two Prayers

Two prayers from Hannah’s life: one prayed in deep distress, and one prayed in joyful praise. Hannah was barren, provoked, misunderstood, and grieved. In her pain, she poured out her soul before the Lord and made a vow that if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him back to the Lord. Eli the priest misunderstood her at first, but after hearing her heart, he blessed her prayer, and Hannah left no longer sad. God answered her prayer, and Hannah gave birth to Samuel. But the story does not end with answered prayer. Hannah fulfilled her vow and returned Samuel to the Lord. Then she prayed again, not in sorrow, but in praise, exalting God for His holiness, strength, justice, and faithfulness. Hannah's reminds us that prayer should not only be passionate when we are asking God for help. Our praise and thanksgiving should be just as passionate when He answers. Whether God says yes, no, or wait, we are called to trust Him, rejoice in Him, and give Him the glory. Sermon Notes 1 Samuel 1:1 – 8 A man had 2 wives, one had children and the other was barren because of the Lord 1 Samuel 1:9 – 11 Hannah prayed, wept in distress and made a vow to the Lord 1 Samuel 1:12 – 16 Eli, the priest misinterpreted Hannah’s prayer and condition 1 Samuel 1:17 & 18 Eli says may the Lord grant your prayer and Hannah leaves no longer sad 1 Samuel 1:19 – 23 God grants Hannah’s prayer and has a son 1 Samuel 1:24 – 28 Hannah fulfills her vow 1 Samuel 2:1 – 5 Hannah prayer is full of praise to God