In 1 Samuel 1, verse 5, the Bible tells us that the Lord had closed Hannah's womb. Hannah was one of the first wives of Elkanah. She is mentioned first, which is probably a good indication that he married her first. It was probably because she had not bore him any children that he decided to marry Peninnah. Peninnah bore him many children, while Hannah remained barren for many years. It is obvious Elkanah loved and cared for Hannah because he gave her a double portion. If you read further, the Bible tells us that Peninnah kept provoking her in order to irritate her. This went on for years.
As I read this verse I found myself wondering why God would allow this to happen. Why would He allow Hannah to be barren and for Peninnah to torment her so. Notice it was the Lord who closed her womb, not the devil. Why? I believe it is because God wanted to create in Hannah a desire for Him that would be greater than any child could ever fill. Something that would grow her in love with Christ.
She watched year after year as Peninnah continued to bear sons for Elkanah. And I'm sure year after year she prayed for her own children. I can almost hear her prayers now… I'm sure she started by praying "Dear God, please give me a son for my husband's name sake." And when Peninnah fulfilled this prayer I would imagine Hannah's prayer then became, "Dear God, give me a son so my adversary will no longer torment me." And still, she was unable to conceive.
But over time, Hannah's heart changed. Her desire became clear in 1 Samuel 1:11
Once Hannah was willing to "give up" what she wanted, she was actually able to "get" what she had prayed for. The Lord opened up her womb and she conceived a child – a son.
I believe it is in Hannah's hunger, brokenness and humility the Lord worked things for good. He wanted Hannah's heart more than anything else. He was not concerned with her comfort or her works, but with her character.
Hannah had finally reached a point in her life when she realized God was the source of life and she was willing to give up the joy of raising her son to set him apart for the Lord. It was out of her despair a promise was fulfilled and she conceived the child Samuel. Samuel became the prophetic voice of God to a lost and straying Israel.
After Samuel, Hannah bore 5 more children while Peninnah had no more.
Dear Lord, please help each of us to see how in all things You work for the good of those who love You. There are times when we are broken, things are stripped away, we are hungry for more, we are humbled – Lord, please help us to be mindful of Your hand in each and every one of those situations. Help us to be faithful and to keep our trust in You. Amen!