Infertility Encouragement from Sarah's LaughterSample

A Profile of Hannah

Hannah is an amazing role model for women desperate for a child. You would give anything to conceive and give birth to a healthy, full-term baby. Hannah felt the same way, pleading with God for a child. Surely you will see yourself in her sorrow. Make it a goal to see yourself in Hannah’s worship and constant prayer.

Hannah’s life is such a beautiful portrait of persistence. 1 Samuel 1:7 tells us that as Hannah’s great effort to become a mother dragged on year after year, so did her determination to worship. “It happened year after year, as often as she went up to the house of the LORD…” Although her emotional battle was intense, she didn't hide away at home. She kept going to worship year after infertile year. Not even the depth of her grief was enough to silence her praise.

We also learn that Hannah was persistent in her prayer life. 1 Samuel 1:12 says “Now it came about as she continued praying before the LORD…” When God’s answer was a silent “not now,” Hannah kept on praying. When she was accused of being drunk due to her grief, she kept on praying. Hannah simply kept on praying.

Even after God blessed Hannah with the child she had begged for, her persistence in worship and prayer continued. In today's readings, take note of how many verses document Hannah asking God for a child. Then notice how many verses are full of her praising Him. You'll discover that Her praises far outnumbered her petitions. She even worshiped in the midst of her heartache. She didn't withhold her praise until she got the answer she wanted. Hannah was determined to give praise and worship to the God who had closed her womb—even before He opened it.

Worship God through your tears. Include Him in your celebrations. Remember Hannah's example: praise Him through the pain, and worship in the waiting.