We all know someone who comes across as harsh, bitter or whose attitude feels cold. But if we look a little closer, that bitterness often hides something much deeper: pain.
Many women today live with that hidden pain. They’ve been hurt, overlooked, or rejected, and sometimes by the very people they love the most. They try to carry on, but inside they feel empty and unseen and when that pain goes unhealed, it can turn into bitterness.
The Bible tells us about a woman who went through the same struggle. Her name was Peninnah.
In the book of 1 Samuel, Peninnah was one of Elkanah’s two wives. Her purpose was clear — to bear children, something his first wife, Hannah, was unable to do. At that time, it was common for a man to have more than one wife if one could not conceive. Although Peninnah fulfilled this duty and gave Elkanah many sons and daughters, yet she never received his love.
The Bible says Elkanah gave Hannah “the best portion” (1 Samuel 1:5). Even though Peninnah gave him a family, his heart belonged to Hannah.
Peninnah responded by cruelty. She mocked and provoked Hannah. Her words were harsh, but they came from a place of hurt. She didn’t need to punish Hannah, she needed inner healing.
It’s easy to feel sorry for Hannah, the woman who couldn’t have children. But what about Peninnah — the woman who had everything except love?
The same God who heard Hannah’s prayer also noticed Peninnah’s tears. The difference is that Hannah turned her pain into prayer, while Peninnah allowed hers to turn into bitterness.
That’s where many of us get stuck. We let the pain define us, instead of handing it over to the One who can help us.
The Bible says: “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.” (Psalm 50:15).
This Sunday, 12th October, at every Universal Church across the UK will hold the Day of the Audience with God. It’s an opportunity to bring your pain, your burdens, and your deepest feelings before Him.
So, if you’ve been feeling like Peninnah — bitter, forgotten, or burdened by rejection. Come and discover what she never did: inner healing and true love in the presence of God.
If you feel more like Hannah—patiently waiting, praying, and longing for an answer, this day is for you too. Come and pour out your heart to God in prayer. Just as He heard Hannah’s cry and turned her sorrow into joy, He can do the same for you.
Event: The Day of An Audience with God
Day and time: Sunday 12th October at 10am (also at 7:30am)
Location: Your local Universal Church
