Never come to a conclusion without knowing the facts

"As she kept on praying to the LORD, Eli observed her mouth. 13 Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk 14 and said to her, “How long are you going to stay drunk? Put away your wine.” - 1 Samuel 1:12-14


While reading the above verse, We see that Eli accuses Hannah to be drunk without giving much thought. The reality was that Hannah was praying to God as her soul was bitter. What a harsh and unreasonable comment by an elderly leader.

The response of Hannah was amazingly humble, for she was a Godly woman. Let us look at her response, Verse 15-16

“Not so, my lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD. 16 Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief.”

Sometimes we come to conclusions very fast, without knowing the facts. This is very dangerous. We should always take time to analyze what we are going to say and weigh our words carefully. Once again read through Hannah's reply. Each and every word is measured and exactly to the point. Let us learn this simple trait in our life from this Godly woman who gave birth to one of the greatest prophets, Samuel.