Friday, January 15, 2010
Hannah’s Song of Victory
(I Samuel 2:1-11)
Hannah’s lovely song of victory finds its echo in the Mary’s Magnificant—the song she sang upon learning of her role in bearing Israel’s Messiah (Luke 1:46-55). Like Hannah of old, Mary was triumphant in the knowledge that she was a chosen vessel, highly favored among women.
Hannah’s praise included several distinct facets. First, she praised God for victory over her “enemies.” Doubtless she had her old adversary, Peninnah, in mind. Perhaps other women, too, had gossiped and speculated about Hannah’s formerly barren condition. Whatever the case, Hannah had the last laugh as God blessed her with Samuel and additional children as well!
Secondly, and most importantly, Hannah extolled the God of Heaven who had answered her prayers (2). She recognized His holiness, strength, knowledge, and judgment. She praised God’s character as the covenant-keeping protector of Israel.
And, lastly, Hannah acknowledged the wonderful sovereignty of God (4-10). She declared God the ultimate source of both demotion and advancement. She recognized His power to both exalt the humble and debase the proud (7, 8). She came to understand that ultimate victory, success, and glory rest with the Lord. And she just wanted to be on His side!
Someone has said, “You and God make a majority.” Hannah found that to be true. But she also knew it was her responsibility to stand on God’s side. During the American Civil War, someone asked Abraham Lincoln if God were on the side of the Union. He sagely replied, “The more important question is this: ‘Is the Union on the side of God?’” Get on God’s side and sing along with Hannah!
