Musings in Samuel (3)

Hannah’s Song

“My heart exults in the LORD.” 1 Samuel 2:1 (Hannah).

“My soul exalts the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.” Luke 1:46 (Mary).

“Those who were full hire themselves out for bread, but those who were hungry cease to hunger.” 1 Samuel 2:5 (Hannah).

“He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty – handed.” Luke 1:53 (Mary).

The songs of Hannah and Mary certainly belong in the hymnody of the People of God. In both instances we are with these women as they are caught-up in the Holy Spirit and speak the prophetic Word of God. We need not wonder the circumstances surrounding these psalms, for both psalms are born out of life in the True and Living God. Both women are speaking things that the “natural” man or woman cannot see.

“Those who contend with the LORD will be shattered; against them He will thunder from the heavens.” 1 Samuel 2:10a (Hannah).

“He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart. He has brought down rulers from their thrones…” Luke 1:51b – 52a (Mary).

These women are seeing beyond the visible into heavenly realms.

Consider Hannah’s words (1 Samuel 2:10b), “And He will give strength to His king, and will exalt the horn of His anointed.” What is Hannah seeing? There is no king in Israel yet, Israel is still led by tribal elders and the Judges. No king has yet been anointed; in fact, her very son who she has dedicated to the LORD, Samuel, will be the one who God commands to anoint first Saul, and then David – and when Hannah sings this psalm Samuel is yet a boy. What is Hannah seeing?

I wonder if we might enjoy “spiritual songs” (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16) if we were to worship God the way Hannah and Mary worshipped God? I wonder what latent words of glory to God and prophetic vision and portrayal are buried within the hearts and souls of God’s people, awaiting the rain of adoration, worship, praise, and sacrificial offering?

Ponder the Song of Hannah. Ponder the Song of Mary. What did these women see? What do we see? What do you see?

Trust Christ. Surrender to Him. Praise Him! And see what song within you He has already written that is ready to be released for His glory!