“‘May your servant find favor with you,’ she replied. Then Hannah went on her way; she ate and no longer looked despondent.” – 1 Samuel 1:18
It is a remarkable change if you remember her story. Heartbroken by her infertility, this young woman pours out her hurt to God. After an embarrassing encounter with the priest, she goes on her way no longer “despondent.” What changed?
“Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant the request you’ve made of him.” This was the response of the priest once he understood the situation. His intercession on her behalf marks the turning point, but it doesn’t explain everything. Why would this external event reorder Hannah’s internal makeup? How could she go “on her way” even before receiving from the Lord?
Hannah trusted “the God of Israel.” It was enough for her to know that she had been heard for her to “go in peace.” She could be thankful even before receiving from the Lord because she trusted the character of the One who heard her request.
What about you? For what are you longing? Have you held your hurt before the Lord trusting His character? Do you know what it means to “go in peace” even before receiving from the Lord?
This Thanksgiving, practice Hannah thankfulness…that is express gratitude even before you receive, because the “God of Israel” has heard you. May He grant the request you have made of Him.
Think These Things 