Tuesday, June 1 Her rival wife taunted her relentlessly in order to upset her.​—1 Sam. 1:6.

[Áine]

Tuesday, June 1

Her rival wife taunted her relentlessly in order to upset her.—1 Sam. 1:6.

 

The prophet Samuel’s mother, Hannah, had to deal with some difficult problems. For many years she was unable to have children. (1 Sam. 1:2) In Israelite culture, a woman who was barren was believed to be cursed. This left her feeling humiliated. (Gen. 30:1, 2) To make matters worse for Hannah, her husband had another wife, Peninnah, who bore him children and taunted Hannah about it. Hannah did not cope well with these difficult challenges. She was so upset that “she would weep and not eat.” She became “extremely bitter” at heart. (1 Sam. 1:7, 10) How did Hannah find comfort? Hannah poured out her feelings to Jehovah in prayer. After she prayed, she explained her situation to High Priest Eli. He then told her: “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant your petition.” What was the result? Hannah “went on her way and ate, and her face was no longer downcast.” (1 Sam. 1:17, 18) Prayer helped Hannah to regain peace. w20.02 21 ¶4-5

[Sister Twister]

Hannah put her problems to Jehovah in prayer , but also didn't give up her spiritual routine , she didn't allow her problems to consume her .

 

We can tell Jehovah our problems but need to keep active and focused on the ministry and meetings , this can often take the focus off of our problems and help us manage them .

 

 

[Vinnie]

Relationships in Bible times  are perplexing. Why did Elkanah allow this treatment to continue year after year? Did he not know what was happening? Why did Peninnah do what she did? Could she have not wept for Hannah for being in such a condition instead of causing such emotional anguish?  Or is this account to teach all of us whom Jehovah really loves is those low and brokenhearted for Jehovah was definitely watching with keen interest the outcome and Hannah was blessed with a good and faithful son who served Jehovah all his years.