Guest post by Stacey Foutch

When reading 1 Samuel 1 Hannah depicts a beautiful picture of patience and unwavering faith. She longed to have children.  Even in her wait she sought God and believed that He would answer her prayers. When provoked by Peninnah, Elkanah‘s other wife, her first response was to seek God.

How often when provoked do we run to others to discuss our problems, often ensuring that they become mountains rather than small hills for us!

Having a mentor that speaks life and gives Godly advice is great, but even then we should seek God FIRST! He knows us, He wants us to pour our hearts out to Him!

When Hannah was provoked, it wasn’t just about being the bigger person but rather the person who trusts and seeks God.

She was real with him.

The word states that “in bitterness of soul” she wept before the Lord. Retaliating wouldn’t have shortened her wait or exemplified Christ’s love.

Oh, how often I fail at this!  We simply cannot see the BIG picture like God can! Our plan may not be his plan! Hannah knew she was created for more!

Due to her unwavering faith, she bore the prophet Samuel.
So the question is what will we do in the wait?

The Lord intends to walk out each day with us!  

“But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” Isaiah 43:1-2

Prayer has to become a part of our every day life, not just simply a last line of defense.

When we truly trust, then His joy will become our strength in the wait!