A study from the Center for Disease Control shows 1.5 million women in the U.S. are infertile. Americans spend three to five billion dollars a year on this ancient problem. In the Bible, Sarah didn’t give birth until she was ninety. Jacob’s wife Rachel also struggled with the inability to conceive. Another biblical account of barrenness was Hannah’s.

And Hannah prayed and said, “My heart exults in the Lord; my horn is exalted in the Lord. My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation.”

I Samuel 2:1

Her prayers for a child were so desperate, the priest Eli thought she was drunk. Hannah promised if God granted her wish, she would give the child back to Him in service. There’s a lesson in Hannah’s prayer after the birth of her son Samuel. First, she followed through with her promise to God and dedicated her son to the Lord. And, as today’s verse shows, she offers praise for an answered prayer.

Christians never hesitate to “take it to the Lord in prayer.” But have you praised Him lately for answering your requests? Take some time today just to thank God for all He has done, both in your life and in your nation. He is still in control.

Recommended Reading: I Samuel 2:1-11