The Triumph of Wisdom

“Not so, my lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the Lord.

1 Samuel 1:15 (NIV)

I believe you've already read the story of Hannah and her lamentations in the temple of God in the book of 1 Samuel. When we read or refer to this account, we most often think of the miracle of pregnancy resulting from her prayer. While this is indeed the case, we never think of the interaction between her and Eli. Hannah was pouring out her affliction and the suffering of her soul before the Lord when Eli, upon seeing her, saw a drunken woman who was undoubtedly muttering nonsense in the temple of God.

If we consider that Eli, a prophet of God, who was not only supposed to question the woman about her situation but also to know that no one should enter the temple of God in such a state, chose to judge Hannah's behavior without knowing what was really going on, we can say that this was a mistake on his part. But that's not all. Hannah's response shows that God sometimes tests our faith and our attitude toward the judgments of others, even when we clearly know we are innocent of their claims. Hannah could have become angry and disrespectful toward Eli, but she chose to humble herself before him by calling him "My lord."

What a display of humility and respect from a suffering woman! She silently implored God, for she no doubt had no more words to express her inner suffering. And God's prophet chose to tell her to stop drinking wine. She wisely defended her attitude without offering an explanation for her suffering. Thus, without even asking, Eli blessed her, saying, "Go in peace, and may God grant you what you ask." Hannah's wisdom triumphed, for God granted her the child she desired. What if Hannah had decided to react differently to Eli's accusation? God often tests our position to determine our attitude, even when we are convinced we are right. May wisdom guide your response or attitude toward your next accuser.

May God's grace and peace be with you all.