God’s Better Than

Hannah was one of two wives of Elkanah. And while she was greatly loved she was also barren and unable to have any children, which in that culture was looked down upon.

She also was constantly depressed and miserable over her condition because of being constantly harassed by Peninnah, Elkanah second wife, who continually reminded her of her “shame.”

“Peninnah would taunt Hannah and make fun of her because the Lord had kept her from having children.” (1 Samuel 1:6)

Every year the family would go to the tabernacle in Shiloh to worship the Lord and offer sacrifices, and every year Elkanah gave to Hannah a double portion because he loved her so much.

But Hannah was still sad and wept. Finally Elkanah said, “Hannah, why do you weep? Why do you not eat? And why is your heart grieved? Am I not better to you than ten sons?” (1 Samuel 1:8)

Far too often we look at what others have, either physical possessions or the gifts and talents given to them by God and we become upset and saddened because what we have seems far less in comparison.

But I believe the Lord is saying to us what Elkanah said to Hannah, “Am I not better to you than what all these others may have.”

God’s presence in our lives is better than any possession or ministries others or we may have. God’s love for us is far greater than anything else.

“This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10)

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

God is truly better than anything or anyone else could ever be, and so instead of feeling sorry for ourselves, let’s rejoice in God’s love for us.