Scriptures: 1 Samuel 1:12-28 & James 1:3
One of my biggest fears in life is to get to a point where I feel like God isn’t listening to me anymore. Waiting can sometimes feel like that — like God isn’t listening. When our waiting feels like a line of perpetual uncertainty, without answers — much like Hannah’s waiting, there is a danger of losing faith that God is listening.
Hannah was one of two wives of Elkanah. The other wife’s name is Peninnah, who could have children. Unfortunately, Hannah could not have children and Peninnah tormented her day and night about this. This story tells us that Peninnah tormented Hannah for years, and this caused Hannah to cry out to the Lord; she cried out to Him in distress and waited for Him to relieve her by blessing her with a child.
The scripture tells us that Hannah continued to pray to the Lord for a very long time. Such long spans of time tempt us to question the character and faithfulness of God. Taking in our surroundings, sometimes there is no evidence He is answering our prayer. We wonder if He will come through for us. In these critical moments, you and I need a strategy to meet such predicaments in victory.
During your season of waiting, cling to the One who can help you, just like Hannah did. Do not lose faith, but instead, resolve to believe that He will bring to fruition that which you await. And while you wait, don’t forget to praise God! When you can’t see through the waiting; when discouragement comes; and the enemy comes to steal your joy and you find yourself in a desperate place — praise Him anyway! Don’t wait until it is your turn, praise Him now! Praise Him during the torment; during the discouragement, and feelings of despair! I want to encourage you to have faith that endures during this time of waiting, remember how God worked in the past, focus on doing His will in the present, and look to His promises in the future!
Tip: One thing that could help you with this waiting journey is to start a gratitude journal. Every day, write down 5 things you are grateful for and praise God for them. A gratitude journal will help you focus your attention on the positive things that are happening in your life.
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Angelisa is a Jesus enthusiast, Worship leader & Christian youth leader. She considers herself to be the old-fashioned type of girl who loves spicy food and belly bottom laughter. Among her passions are singing, working with children, and encouraging others.