1 Sam. 1:8 - a husband ‘s love

By Jimmy Lau

1Sa 1:8  Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am not I better to thee than ten sons? 

Am not I better to thee than ten sons — In Elkanah we have an example of a most excellent husband; who patiently bore with the insolent attitude of Peninnah, and comforted the dejected Hannah with words full of tender affection. Indeed, his love for Hannah was better than ten children.

Brethren, marriage demands hard work. And successful marriages require lots of work. And one area to work on is LOVE. Love should not be at the peak at the wedding. Love should get better from there, not downhill. Love should grow stronger each day. Of course, there will be days you hate each other. But at the end of the day, love must prevail. Love happens if you choose your relationship—and each other—over and over again. You have to choose to stay together. “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (Matthew 19:6).

It’s perfectly normal to have times when you feel less in love with your spouse. But let not the sun go down on your love. Your spouse is worth to you more than ten children. Children will leave your nest and at the end of the day, you will be left with your spouse. Yes, back to where you started - just the TWO of you! Therefore, love one another fervently! Your spouse is EVERYTHING!