Weep With God

Hannah wanted a baby. But her womb was empty. Years passed, and she must have imagined what it would be like to feel a little one kicking, to look down into her infant’s face, to watch a child grow.

What do you want? Do you also find your hands or heart empty?

Hannah’s sorrow wasn’t just her lack, however. Though her grief was private, her inability to have children was public. Her rival poked at Hannah’s bleeding heart, never letting things settle.

And then, she found herself at the temple, weeping bitterly. Her private sorrow was now a public lament. Later on, she describes herself as “deeply troubled,” pouring her heart out to God.

There’s more to Hannah’s story — misunderstanding from God’s leaders, and eventually, a miracle baby to fulfill her heart's desire. But today, let’s pause in this moment of bitter weeping.

Because you, like me, might not be at the fulfillment of the prayer but still in deep anguish. If you are, I encourage you to weep.

In a world that values toughness, we can be quick to wipe away tears and hide our sorrow. But sorrow is holy. Our tears and groans can be a prayer. Even the Holy Spirit intercedes that way: “We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” Romans 8:26

While the world values toughness, God values humility, honesty, and closeness. In the moments of deep brokenness and longing and even bitterness, God loves us.

He weeps with us. Psalm 34:18 says God is close to the broken-hearted. To Hannah. To me. To you.

God, thank you for your compassion toward me. Thank you for being with me in my sorrow. I come to you with this sadness that is more than I have words for. May my tears be a holy prayer before you today.

Throughout Today: Is there anything that is keeping you from pouring out your soul before God? A busy schedule? Shame at your sorrow? Lack of solitude? What can you do to make space and time to weep with God today?