1 Samuel 1:4-8 ESV
[4] On the day when Elkanah sacrificed, he would give portions to Peninnah his wife and to all her sons and daughters. [5] But to Hannah he gave a double portion, because he loved her, though the Lord had closed her womb. [6] And her rival used to provoke her grievously to irritate her, because the Lord had closed her womb. [7] So it went on year by year. As often as she went up to the house of the Lord, she used to provoke her. Therefore Hannah wept and would not eat. [8] And Elkanah, her husband, said to her, “Hannah, why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart sad? Am I not more to you than ten sons?”
This love story, though extremely short, is my favorite. I talk about this all the time. It’s not just that it says He gave her a double portion because he loved her, but the way he tried to console her. You can hear the love in his words. The desperation to fix this problem and ease his wife’s pain.
My only problem with this story, is that Hannah is praying by the temple alone. She’s by herself. Elkanah is no where to be found. It never once says that he prays to the LORD on her behalf to open her womb.
See, we can love someone but not put that love into action. True love isn’t just words, it’s actions. It’s not just wiping the tears away, it’s faint, praying, going before the LORD seeking His intervention.
So, this Valentine’s Day, bring your relationship before the LORD. Ask Him for His help, His guidance, His direction in your relationship. Let God be a part of your love story.
Peace. Love. Go Forth and Act On Love.