by Dave Dravecky
I Samuel 1:1-19 I have had the privilege of knowing many souls who have endured staggering personal pain. Many of them possess character qualities I don't have. Some were forged in the crucible of their suffering, some they took with them into the fire. It may just be my observation, but I've often wondered if their strength of character and depth is a gift from God that enables them to endure their trial - not just for the sake of endurance, but because the pain of their adversity is birthing something God-ordained. I know they will have great reward in heaven for their sacrifice and perseverance, but I believe the rest of us receive part of that reward here on earth. In Jewish culture, Hannah's barrenness was a sign that she was somehow a failure. She endured great personal anguish, slander, and being misunderstood by those around her, even by Eli the priest. They all missed the spiritual significance of Hannah's barrenness. God was preparing her to birth a leader for Israel, a priest and prophet who would change the course of the nation. And it all began with suffering.
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