Generally when we are provoked ~ annoyed, angry, vexed, or enraged ~ we are not likely thinking of purpose nor cognizant that we can use these emotions to position us to bring forth something great instead of something destructive that we often times later regret. This post centers around the story of Hannah found in 1 Samuel 1:1-19. I don't want to make this long and drawn out but there are definitley some power points that we need to consider that may assist us the next time we encouter our Peninnah. Let's take a look.

• Hannah's womb was deliberately closed by the Lord. Closed not because of anything that she had did yet she had to deal with the perceptions, speculations and opinions of others. Remember, to be barren was considered to be a curse. Have you ever found yourself in a situation that you seemed cursed, not able to produce or be fruitful in even though you were/are fruitful in other areas and had/have to deal with the opinions, perceptions, and speculations of others?
• God used Hannah's barrenness to bring her to a place of desperation and Peninnah's provocation to bring her to a place of prayer. Do you have a Peninnah? Peninnah can be an instrument in the Lord's hand to bring you to a place of proper positioning for your purpose.
• Hannah exeprienced bitterness of her soul but refused to allow her condition and situation to make her bitter. What situation is causing you to become bitter? Never allow situations or circumstances to make you bitter.
• The way Hannah responded to her situation, particularly Peninnah was critical to her succcess. Pettiness shows immaturity. Never allow pettiness to dictate your response. Respond to provocation with dignity. Have you found yourself being petty?
• Hannah never retaliated to the one who was provoking her instead she used the weapon of her enemy to bring her to a place of prayer. Where do you go when the enemy is harrassing you?
• Hannah had to deal with being misunderstood by her husband, Elkanah. There are some desires that only God will be able to understand. Face it, there are just some things that even the ones who love you the most won't get about you. Don't sweat it. Remain faithful and persevere.
• Hannah experienced false accusations from the religious leader of the day. Eli, the priest, accused Hannah of being drunk. He misjudged the sorrow of her soul. She did not become offended. In regard to authority she humbly expressed her desire to leadership.
• Through all of this Hannah continued to pray and worship God. Are you able to still worship God in the midst of being misunderstood and falsely accused? Do you, can you stay low so that God may take you high?