What makes us glad? Is it when things go our way that we experience gladness? But have we ever been glad in anticipation of things going our way? Though I have read the account of Hannah — mother of Samuel — many times before, I was struck by the thought of “anticipatory gladness” in recently reading it again.
In first Samuel chapter 1, we read of a man by the name of Elkanah who had two wives — Peninnah and Hannah — who would go annually to worship and sacrifice to the LORD at Shiloh where Eli’s sons served as priests. (vs.3) Peninnah had borne children for Elkanah, but Hannah had not, and Peninnah would provoke Hannah to irritate her because of this. (vss.4-6) Therefore, Hannah was sad and would not eat. But Hannah prayed to the LORD about her situation, promising that if He would give her a son, she would give him to the LORD all his days. (vs.11) Eli observed her lips moving, but hearing nothing, thought she was drunk and rebuked her. (vss.13-14) When Hannah revealed to Eli she was not drunk, but was rather troubled in spirit and had been pouring out her soul before the LORD (vss.15-16), we then read. . .
“(17) Then Eli answered, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” (18) And she said, “Let your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.” (1 Samuel 1:17-18 ESV)
Even before she conceived, Hannah’s sadness had left. In knowing her prayer had been heard and in expectation of it being answered, she found gladness. Though she may not have known how or when, gladness had replaced her sadness.
John encouraged. . .
“(14) And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. (15) And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.” (1 John 5:14-15 ESV)
As we pray, may we find “anticipatory gladness” in knowing God hears us as we trust for whatever is in accordance with His Will to ultimately be fulfilled!
Have a great day MARKED BY GLAD FAITH!
Carl
