How does it feel to be loved by a man?

It is the dream of most women to be loved by a man, who honours her, respects her, is faithful to her and with whom she can build a successful life.

The characteristics of love is outlined in the book of 1st Corinthians 13 : 4 – 7 and in Ephesians 5: 25 husbands are encouraged to love their wives as Christ loved the church.   The actions of SOME men who failed to meet the requirements of love outlined in the Bible, makes ALL men get a bad name. However, I know there are a FEW good men left, who honour their relationships and their spouses.

Two Bible characters who loved their wife

Some of us may never have a husband or may never encounter a man who truly loves us but we can live our lives vicariously through Bible characters. Let me share two persons that I found interesting, Jacob (Genesis 29) and Elkanah (1 Samuel 1). 

Jacob

In Genesis 29: 16 – 31, we read that Jacob’s relative Laban had two daughters Leah and Rachel. Leah was the eldest and had weak eyes while Rachel was gorgeous and Jacob loved her. Jacob agreed to work seven years with Laban to get Rachel to be his wife.  After the wedding and reception festivities he awoke and found that it was Leah, that he had gotten married to. Jacob was tricked into marrying Leah  and he had to work another seven years to get Rachel. After having a few children, there was no indication that Jacob’s love for Leah increased. 

 

Elkanah

Elkanah had two wives, Hannah and Peninnah (1 Samuel 1). Peninnah had children but Hannah had none.  Elkanah loved Hannah and when she started having children, there was no further mention of Peninnah.

My conclusion on the matter

• Leah tried desperately to get love and attention from her husband Jacob but despite having several children, his feelings did not change towards her, as she became his wife by trickery. She knew he loved Rachel.

• Can you love two persons the same way, at the same time? Even though they had two wives Jacob loved Rachel and Elkanah loved Hannah.

I personally don’t have an answer to the question I posed in the topic because I have never experienced the love of a man like Rachel and Hannah have. However, it is my hope that you, my sisters patiently await the right “Mr. Right”, with the Lord’s help.  Also, when you are praying, pray for discernment to identify the wolves wearing sheep attire.

Remember Jesus and your Heavenly Father loves you.

                    Written by Mellisha Carter-Linton

                                                    Jamaica