The sermon titled Persistent Prayer: The Prayer God Answers explores the powerful example of prayer in the life of Hannah as detailed in 1 Samuel 1. This chapter marks a significant transition in Israel’s history, as the book of 1 Samuel serves as a bridge between the time of the Judges, where Israel was ruled by God (a theocracy), to the eventual establishment of kings, (a monarchy). In this context, the life of Samuel, the last judge of Israel, plays a critical role, although the book itself was not written by him, but rather by an unknown author who likely drew from personal records of Samuel, Saul, and David.

The story begins with Elkanah, a devout man who traveled annually to Shiloh to worship the Lord. Elkanah had two wives: Peninnah, who had children, and Hannah, who was childless. Peninnah’s ability to bear children caused deep strife within the family, as she would frequently provoke Hannah, reminding her of Hannah’s barrenness. In this difficult situation, we see a timeless lesson: worldly possessions or circumstances, such as children or wealth, do not guarantee happiness or peace. Moreover, being righteous or godly does not exempt us from trials. Despite the love Elkanah showed her, Hannah was inconsolable, yearning for a child.

In her deep sorrow, Hannah turned to God in persistent prayer. She vowed that if God would grant her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord for all the days of his life, even committing him to a Nazirite vow, as symbolized by not allowing a razor to touch his head. This was not Hannah’s first time praying, but this time her focus shifted from personal desire to God’s glory. Her prayer, like Solomon’s prayer for wisdom, was one of selflessness and devotion to God’s purposes rather than personal gain. This shift is an essential key to understanding why her prayer was answered—God honors prayers that align with His will and character.

In her persistence, Hannah continued praying silently, her lips moving but no words coming out. Eli, the priest, mistakenly thought she was drunk, but upon realizing her deep grief and sorrow, he blessed her, saying, “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant your petition.” Hannah left her burden with the Lord, and though her situation had not yet changed, her heart was transformed. This reveals a profound truth about prayer—it may not change our circumstances immediately, but it changes our hearts, giving us peace in the midst of our trials.

Eventually, God remembered Hannah, and she conceived and bore a son, naming him Samuel, which means “asked of God.” The birth of Samuel was the fulfillment of a long-awaited promise, and it reminds us that God’s timing is always perfect, even if the waiting is difficult. Hannah’s persistence in prayer, her selfless vow, and her unwavering faith were all rewarded as she saw the fruit of her faith in action.

After Samuel was weaned, Hannah fulfilled her vow by bringing him to Eli at the temple in Shiloh, dedicating him to the Lord’s service for life. This act of faith demonstrated that Hannah valued her relationship with God above even her greatest earthly blessing—her son. In doing so, Hannah set an example of true worship, which goes beyond praise for what God has done and acknowledges God for who He is. Worship is not conditional on receiving blessings; it is a life laid down in surrender to God’s will.

The story of Hannah’s persistent prayer teaches us many lessons. Firstly, we learn the importance of aligning our prayers with God’s will rather than seeking our own desires. Secondly, it shows the power of persistence in prayer, as exemplified by Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18. Lastly, Hannah’s story encourages us to trust God’s timing and to worship Him with our whole hearts, knowing that He is faithful to answer in His perfect way.

At Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, Pastor Allen Victor encourages the congregation to develop a heart of persistent prayer, as modeled by Hannah. Through her example, we are reminded to approach God with humility, faith, and trust that He hears and answers according to His will.

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