‘She said, “May your servant find favour in your eyes.” Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast.’ – 1 Samuel 1:18 (NIV)
Something beautiful happened after Hannah prayed.
Before her circumstances changed, before her womb was opened, Hannah’s heart shifted. Scripture tells us she left the temple no longer downcast. Her burden hadn’t lifted in reality, but peace had taken root in her soul.
The account of Hannah is one of the most beautiful examples of how God can turn our deepest sorrows into incredible joy. This is the power of prayer – it doesn’t always change our situation immediately, but it changes us.
Peace comes when we release control into God’s hands, trusting Him with the outcome. Like Hannah, we can walk away lighter after prayer, not because the problem is solved, but because we’ve placed it in the care of the One who is able. Remember, His peace surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Friends, prayer is not only about answered requests – it’s about exchanged burdens. When we release our anxieties to God, He replaces them with His peace.
Prayer
Lord, fill me with Your peace as I wait. Let me remember to trust that You are working, even when I cannot yet see the answer. This I pray in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.
Read: Psalm 86:1; John 16:33
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 107:1-9; 2 Corinthians 12:11-21; Isaiah 29; Isaiah 30:1-18