Unanswered prayer is one of the biggest challenges we can face as Christians. It can be intensely discouraging. Think of Hannah as you reread this portion of her story. Hannah’s torment at the delay of her heart’s desire was genuine and powerful. Perhaps you can relate. Have you ever faced a dilemma that had no earthly solution? Maybe you are facing just such a challenge today.

Take heart! Remember that Hannah did not pray once for a child and find a baby in the crib the next morning. Even after Hannah finally conceived, there was a nine-month wait before she held her baby in her arms.

We can assume that as Hannah waited for her baby she made preparations for him. I know that each time I was an expectant mother, as I waited I got things ready. I happily daydreamed of my child’s future and even prayed for his or her salvation. Waiting need not be a stagnant time.

My point is that God’s timing is perfect. As we persevere in prayer and wait on God, let our prayers be mixed with praise and a spirit of happy anticipation. There have been times when I felt worse after praying. In hindsight, I see that those were times when I was simply rehearsing my fears before God without acknowledging God’s sovereignty.

The Lord wants us to find strength, hope, and encouragement in our prayers. Let’s take our example from the Lord’s Prayer. As we pray this prayer today and reflect on its familiar words, may we look for the elements of praise and hope.