by Shelbi Cullen
“In this life, you will have tribulation…” (Jn. 16:33).
Suffering … must we?
A Biblical Example of Suffering
There are numerous people in God’s Word who suffered well under provocation, for our example, encouragement, and hope (Rom. 15:4). Hannah is a wonderful example who lived during the time of the Judges, one of the darkest times of Israel (1 Sam. 1).
Hannah’s Suffering
In Hannah’s story, you learn quickly of her suffering. Scripture reveals her husband as a polygamist — an example of those who took a second wife because of a lack of faith when their first wife was unable to bear them children (Gen. 16:2-3, 30:3-4, 9). Hannah suffered profoundly in her barrenness; she lived in a society where a women’s worth was found in bearing children. Peninnah, the other wife in her household, cruelly provoked and ridiculed Hannah for her inability and barrenness (v. 6).
Similarly, women today suffer from unfaithful & uncaring husbands, barrenness, ridicule, and provocation.
Hannah’s Response to Her Suffering
Hannah, though deeply distressed by these circumstances, did not grieve without hope. Rather, she pursued the Lord, pouring out her soul in prayer to God Almighty, the Giver of life
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