I Samuel 1:1-18 - A Pious Family From Ephraim

I Samuel 1:1-18

Then Eli answered and said, “Go in peace; and may the God of Israel grant your request that you have asked of Him.”

Message: A Pious Family from Ephraim

Time: This book is a biography of Samuel's life and career up to his death. It took place over a period of about 110 years, stretching from the closing days of the judges, when Samuel was born (ca. 1120 BC) through the death of Saul (1011 BC).

What the Lord is Saying: In verse, this book introduces Elkanah, an Ephraimite. He has two wives - Hannah and Peninnah. Peninnah has children but Hannah is barren. 

Sort of a surprise that Hophni and Phinehas are priests. Eli is mentioned as the high priest and his two sons - Hophni and Phinehas, were not outstanding choices for priests. 2:12 says they are "worthless men; they did not know the Lord." 

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers -- Verse 3 says, "Unto the Lord of hosts." —This is the first time in the Old Testament Book that we find the well-known appellation of the Eternal “Jehovah Sabaoth,” Lord of hosts. It is computed that this title of God occurs 260 times in the Old Testament, but it is not found in any of the books written or compiled before this time. In the New Testament it is only once used (see James 5:4).

They are present in Shiloh. This is where the tabernacle was set up and so where the sacrifices occurred. 

Elkanah would give portions of his thank offerings to his children, but Hannah received a double portion. That seems to have stirred up anger and resentment for Elkanah's other wife Peninnah and she took it out on Hannah. 

In Hannah's distress, she prays to the Lord (v. 10). Then she vows to the Lord that if provided a child a razor will not meet his head (v. 11). Eli thought the girl was drunk but she was simply praying in silence. Eventually, Eli asks the Lord to honor Hannah's request (v. 18). 

Summary: Elkanah comes to Shiloh to offer sacrifices and provides a double portion to his wife Hannah who is without children. 

Promise: Let us seek God’s face this day and ask Him to help us live as lights in this spiritually darkened world.

Prayer: O Father God, you are the great provider. You work in lives and help people to remain with you through good times and even not so good times. Once again, you do surprising things through those that don't have immediate favor as you seem to be doing something in Hannah's life. This reminds and encourages me and others that God you bestow your grace and favor on all walks of life. 

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