You can read this introduction before reading the chapter above.
Elkanah, Hannah, Peninnah, Eli and Samuel are the main characters of this chapter. Most people only remember Hannah and Samuel.
As you read the chapter, pay special attention to the role Peninnah plays. This may not be very obvious. Bear Revelations 12:10 in mind as you ponder about Peninnah. Try and imagine the type of character she was.
This story also highlights the power of fervent prayer and the prayer of agreement. Notice the person who agreed with Hannah's prayer.
Elkanah was Hannah's husband. He had two wives. Polygamy was permissible in those days although it was not God's perfect will. Polygamy is not acceptable to God today. So don't get ideas!
Finally, you cannot help but admire the faithfulness of Hannah as she keeps her promise to God. She made a vow to God and kept it. Many of us have made a vow to serve and obey God all the days of our life. - Are you still keeping it?
Please read 1 Samuel 1:1-28 before starting the questions
1. How would you describe Elkanah - was he a Godly man?
2. What practical steps can we take to encourage our families or household to serve God in this day and age?
3. Why is God against polygamy? Genesis 221-24. Matthew 19:3-6
4. Who was Hannah's adversary?
5. Who is our adversary 1 Peter 5: 8-9
6. What kind of attack does our adversary bring against us?
7. Why did Eli think Hannah was drunk? Samuel 1:12-14, 1 Samuel 1:9
8. When do you find it convenient to pray silently and when do you find it convenient to pray loudly.
9. What happened in 1 Samuel 1:17-18? What effect did this have on Hannah's prayer? Matthew 18:19-20
10. How can we stand in agreement with other people in prayer?
11. Hannah gave her child to the Lord. This must have been a very difficult thing. How can we commit our children to the Lord? How can we give back to God the things he has blessed us with?