IMITATE THEIR FAITH-"Conclusion of Self-Concerned No More"

Hannah thus set an example for all of God's servants when it comes to prayer.  Jehovah kindly invites his people to speak to him openly, without reservation, pouring out their concern before him as a trusting child would to a loving parent.  (Psalm 62:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)  The apostle Peter was inspired to write these comforting words about prayer to Jehovah:  "Throw all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you." -1 Peter 5:7. 

Humans, however, are not as understanding and sympathetic as Jehovah is. As Hannah wept and prayed, she was startled by a voice. It was Eli, the high priest, who had been observing her. He said: "How long will you behave drunk?  Put away your wine from upon  you."  Eli had noticed Hannah's quivering lips, her sobs, and her emotional demeanor.  Instead of inquiring what was wrong, he jumped to the conclusion that she was drunk. -1 Samuel  1:12-14. 

How hurtful for Hannah, in that moment of anguish, to have to face such a baseless accusation-and that from a man who held such  an honored position!  Nevertheless, she again set a sterling example of faith. She did not let a man's imperfections get in the way of her worship of Jehovah. She answered Eli respectfully and explained her situation .  He replied, perhaps in a chastened and softer tone:  "Go in peace and may the God of Israel grant your petition that you have asked of him." -1 Samuel 1:15-17.  

What was the effect on Hannah of opening her heart to Jehovah and worshipping him there at his tabernacle? The account reads: "The woman proceeded to go on her way and to eat, and her face became self-concerned no more. " (1 Samuel 1:18)   The Jerusalem Bible here reads:  "Her countenance  was no more sad."  Hannah felt relieved. She had, in a sense, transferred the weight of her emotional burden to shoulders infinitely broader and stronger than her own, those of her heavenly Father.  (Psalm 55:22)  Is any problem too heavy for him? No-not then, not now, not ever! 

When we feel loaded down, overwhelmed , or overcome with sadness, we do well to follow Hannah's example and speak openly to the One whom the Bible calls the "Hearer of prayer." (Psalm 65:2) If we do so in faith, we too may find that our sadness is replaced by "the peace of God that excels all thought." -Philippians 4:6, 7. 

Next time: "There Is No Rock Like Our God" 

From the Watchtower magazine, 2010