When Hannah despaired at the bitterness of her lot (not able to conceive) with a healthy dose of a rival who rubbed it in her face, she turned to God. Her prayer was honest and she meant every word. What she asked for was a son whom she would in turn set apart for God’s service. Although the priest misunderstood what she was about (thought she was drunk), Hannah explained the intensity of her prayer- “pouring out her soul” to God. Eli did not realize that the favor he gave to Hannah that day would make up for what was lacking in his own family, children who feared God. Samuel was born and after he was weaned became an apprentice to Eli. Hannah was no longer sad once she received favor from the one who spoke for God. Her faith was in the correct place, which buoyed her soul. – Teresa #cryoutoJesus #ourgreathighpriest

1 Samuel 1:9-18 (ESV)

9 After they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh, Hannah rose. Now Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the doorpost of the temple of the Lord. 10 She was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly. 11 And she vowed a vow and said, “O Lord of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head.”

12 As she continued praying before the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. 13 Hannah was speaking in her heart; only her lips moved, and her voice was not heard. Therefore Eli took her to be a drunken woman. 14 And Eli said to her, “How long will you go on being drunk? Put your wine away from you.” 15 But Hannah answered, “No, my lord, I am a woman troubled in spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been pouring out my soul before the Lord. 16 Do not regard your servant as a worthless woman, for all along I have been speaking out of my great anxiety and vexation.” 17 Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” 18 And she said, “Let your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.