Hannah knew her husband loved her, even his encouragement could not comfort her. She could not keep from listening of Peninnah's jeers and letting Peninnah's words erode her self-confidence. Although we cannot keep others from unjustly criticizing us, we can choose how we will react to their hurtful words. Rather than dwelling upon our problems, we can enjoy the loving relationships God has given us. By so doing, we can exchange self-pity for hope. Hannah had good reason to feel discouraged and bitter; she was unable to bear children she shared her husband with a woman who ridiculed her loving husband could not solve her problem and even the high priest misunderstand her motives. But instead of retaliating or giving up hope, Hannah prayed. She brought her problem honestly before God. Each of us may face times of terrible situation when nothing comes to our help in our work service or relationships. It is different to pray in faith when we feel so injective. But as Hanna discovered, prayer opens the way for God to work.

--Annette M. Nawls

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