Women Of Impact: Hannah And Abigail Series

WOMEN OF IMPACT: HANNAH AND ABIGAIL

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 1:1-28, 1 Samuel 25:2-42

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 31:26-31, Titus 2:3-5, Luke 1:45, Matthew 5:9, James 3:17-18

INTRODUCTION:

Throughout Scripture, God uses women in powerful ways to shape destinies, preserve righteousness, and manifest His glory. Two striking examples in the book of 1 Samuel are Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel, and Abigail, the wise woman who preserved the future of King David. These women did not seek the spotlight, but their character, wisdom, and spiritual insight made a lasting impact on their generation.

Hannah was a woman of prayer, faith, and dedication, while Abigail was a woman of discernment, courage, and peacemaking. Both of them acted in critical moments that altered the course of events—Hannah through spiritual intercession, and Abigail through godly wisdom. Their lives teach us that a woman’s strength is not in her physical might, but in her ability to discern God’s will, act in faith, and speak with wisdom and grace.

In this study, we will explore the virtues that made Hannah and Abigail women of impact and how their stories continue to teach and inspire godly women and leaders today.

1. HANNAH: A WOMAN OF PRAYER AND PROMISE

Hannah’s story reveals the power of a persistent, faith-filled woman who refused to let sorrow silence her prayers.

a) She Took Her Burden to God, Not to People (1 Samuel 1:10-11)

In bitterness of soul, Hannah poured out her heart before the Lord instead of complaining to others.

b) She Vowed to Give Back What God Gave Her (1 Samuel 1:11)

Her impact began with a vow of surrender. Her son Samuel became a prophet to the nations.

c) Her Faith Was Active, Even Before She Saw Results (1 Samuel 1:18)

She left the altar with joy, trusting that God had heard her prayer.

d) She Kept Her Promise and Dedicated Samuel to God (1 Samuel 1:27-28)

Hannah’s spiritual integrity made her a vessel through whom God's prophetic purpose was released.

Biblical Example: Mary, the mother of Jesus, also responded in surrender—“Be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38).

2. ABIGAIL: A WOMAN OF WISDOM AND PEACEMAKING

Abigail stood between David’s anger and her husband’s foolishness, and by wisdom, she preserved destiny.

a) She Acted Quickly and Wisely in a Crisis (1 Samuel 25:18-20)

When she heard of the impending danger, she responded swiftly with discernment and honour.

b) She Took Responsibility to Intervene Even Though It Wasn’t Her Fault (1 Samuel 25:24)

True leaders take initiative to prevent destruction, even when they’re not to blame.

c) Her Words Calmed David and Redirected His Emotions (1 Samuel 25:28-31)

Her speech was seasoned with grace and spiritual insight, reminding David of his calling.

d) David Acknowledged Her Wisdom and Blessed Her Discernment (1 Samuel 25:32-33)

Because of Abigail, innocent blood was not shed, and David’s future remained unstained.

Biblical Example: Esther also intervened in a time of crisis, risking her life to preserve her people (Esther 4:14-16).

3. BOTH WOMEN DEMONSTRATED SPIRITUAL INSIGHT AND COURAGE

Hannah and Abigail were spiritually sensitive and acted in faith beyond cultural expectations.

a) Hannah Prayed Through Her Pain Until Purpose Emerged

Her prayers birthed a prophetic voice in Israel. Samuel changed the course of Israel’s history.

b) Abigail Discerned the Weight of David’s Destiny

She understood that David was not just an outlaw but God’s chosen king.

c) Both Women Operated in Quiet Strength and Inner Conviction

They did not fight with physical weapons, but their spiritual actions brought divine outcomes.

d) Their Legacy Was Not in Position, But in Purpose

Neither held formal office, yet both influenced kings and nations.

Biblical Example: Deborah also led Israel through wisdom and prophetic leadership (Judges 4:4-7).

4. WOMEN OF IMPACT ARE ROOTED IN HUMILITY AND HONOUR

Their greatness came not from self-promotion, but from reverence for God and service to others.

a) Hannah Addressed Eli the Priest Respectfully Even When Misunderstood (1 Samuel 1:15-16)

Her humility preserved her spiritual focus despite being falsely judged.

b) Abigail Bowed Before David in Peaceful Submission (1 Samuel 25:23)

She was not weak—she was strategic. Honour opened the door for influence.

c) They Understood Timing and Authority

Hannah waited on God’s timing. Abigail didn’t act in haste but with precision.

d) They Showed That Humility Is a Gateway to Greatness

Women of impact influence from the place of surrender, not striving.

Biblical Example: Ruth humbly followed Naomi, and her humility positioned her for divine favour (Ruth 2:10-12).

5. GOD REWARDED THEIR FAITHFULNESS AND RAISED THEIR INFLUENCE

When women walk with God, He multiplies their impact in ways far beyond their imagination.

a) Hannah Became the Mother of a National Prophet (1 Samuel 2:21)

God gave her more children and honoured her with spiritual legacy.