August 24, 2022 –
Perseverance is persistence in sticking to a plan. A Biblical example of perseverance is Hannah’s repeated anguished prayers to God for a son.
During one of the family’s annual trips to Shiloh and the tabernacle, Hannah, one of the two wives of Elkanah, was childless, left the sacrificial meal dinner table and went to the Tabernacle and straight to God with her plea.
And she made this vow: “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, if you will look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer and give me a son, then I will give him back to you. He will be yours for his entire lifetime, and as a sign that he has been dedicated to the Lord, his hair will never be cut.” (1 Samuel 1:11).
Her character was tested when the priest, Eli, saw Hannah weeping and praying but not moving her lips. Hannah prayed from her heart as she poured out her grief to God. Eli heard Hannah’s fervent prayer and accused her of being drunk. “Oh no, sir!” she replied. “I haven’t been drinking wine or anything stronger. But I am very discouraged, and I was pouring out my heart to the Lord. Don’t think I am a wicked woman! For I have been praying out of great anguish and sorrow.” “In that case,” Eli said, “go in peace! May the God of Israel grant the request you have asked of him.” (Samuel 1:15-17).
Hannah prayed for a son, promising to dedicate him to God. Her prayers were answered, and she brought the child Samuel to Shiloh for religious training.
Prayer opens the door to God. He hears your request. Sometimes His response is immediate; on occasions, it is delayed, but it is always on time. Jesus taught, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find” (Matthew 7:7). We all need to pray, and I beg you to have steadfastness despite difficulties and obstacles to achieve your goals.
What makes a person persevere? Need.