The Good Mother

Introduction

Hannah and her husband Elkanah faced the challenge of barrenness, yet Hannah’s determination for change surpassed her husband’s. In 1 Samuel 1:1-18, we glean valuable insights from Hannah’s attitude that can inspire transformation in any situation.

Here are 5 lessons from the exemplary mother:

1. A good mother yearns for change.

In 1 Samuel 1:1-8, we see the backdrop of Hannah’s struggle with barrenness amid Elkanah’s other wives’ fertility. Despite her sorrow, Hannah remained driven for change.

Lesson: We must relentlessly pursue change. Like Isaac encouraging Esau to break free from his yoke, we must refuse to accept unfavorable conditions as permanent.

2. A good mother seeks divine intervention.

Driven by her restlessness, Hannah sought solace in prayer before the Lord (1 Samuel 1:9-11). She recognized that lasting solutions come from God.

Lesson: Our ultimate help comes from the Lord. While others may offer temporary solutions, only God provides enduring answers.

3. A good mother articulates her requests clearly.

Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 1:11 was specific: she asked for a son to dedicate to God’s service. Her faith was precise.

Lesson: To see change, we must clearly articulate our desires to God, following the example of Abraham’s servant in Genesis 24.

4. A good mother is fervent in addressing her problem.

Hannah’s fervent prayer in 1 Samuel 1:12-16 demonstrates her unwavering commitment to seeking God’s intervention.

Lesson: Passive prayers yield passive results. Wholehearted devotion, as Jeremiah notes, leads to finding God and receiving answers.

5. A good mother walks in faith.

Despite not yet receiving her answer, Hannah departed the temple with joy (1 Samuel 1:17-18), demonstrating faith in God’s promise.

Lesson: Walking by faith, not sight, is key. Jesus assures us that unwavering faith yields answered prayers, moving mountains of obstacles.

Conclusion

Hannah’s example of unwavering faith and persistence should inspire all—mothers, fathers, and children alike—to pursue change fervently. By emulating her resilience, we too can witness the turnaround we seek.

Eric Otchere shares daily inspirational insights, believing in their power to propel individuals to higher levels of life in Christ. Contact him at otchereeric@gmail.com.