I Samuel 1-2

“For not by might shall a man prevail” (2:9).  Samuel’s story begins with the stories of the previous generation: his mother, Hannah, and the wicked sons of the priest Eli.  Hannah was a barren wife, probably considered cursed until God miraculously answered her prayer for a child.  Eli’s sons were privileged by birth and role, but they used their power to steal from people coming to worship and abuse the women serving them (v12-22). 

Hannah’s song celebrates the God who punishes the wicked and “raises the poor from the dust” (v8).  The poor, weak, and brokenhearted find refuge in Him.