10-Day Prayer ChallengeSample

Often we center our prayers around things or achievements—promotions, open doors, opportunities. But Hannah’s prayer shows us something richer. Her heart cry wasn’t for status or success, but for a child.

In 1 Samuel 1, Hannah was barren and deeply distressed. But instead of wallowing in her pain, she poured it out to God. Her desire wasn’t selfish—she longed to raise a child who would serve the Lord. She promised that if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him back to Him. Her prayer was others-focused, faith-filled, and aligned with God’s purposes.

I’ve had the honor of joining with couples in prayer for a child—some after years of waiting, some walking through heartbreak—and I’ve seen the Lord answer. There’s nothing quite like watching a long-awaited promise held in someone’s arms. It’s a beautiful thing when God gives life in response to faithful prayer.

This teaches us something profound: prayer isn’t just about getting things from God; it’s about giving things back to Him. It’s about aligning our desires with His heart. When we pray for others—our children, our families, our communities—we step into God’s greater story.

Respond to God’s Word:
Today, pray for someone else’s breakthrough. Take your eyes off personal gain and ask God to bless, protect, or raise up someone in your life. Trust Him with your own needs while lifting up another.