Friends in Fellowship – PtP Prayer Letter – May 2026

Dear Friends,

Elkanah and Hannah are a ‘made for each other’ couple. Not only do their names rhyme but their hearts too seem to be in perfect harmony. Elkanah was a God-fearing man given to faithful spiritual observances – worship and offering sacrifices. His heart was with his wife. Hannah was not able to bear children, yet he loved her. Penninah, his second wife was taunting Hannah for being barren, and this was hurting her badly. Noticing this, whenever Elkanah made an offering, he gave double portions to Hannah. Hannah must have been comforted but not consoled. Elkanah cared about how Hannah felt for he 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?” He was a caring husband to Hannah. Thirdly, he allowed Hannah to make a vow and keep it even though it meant he had to give away his son Samuel for the
work of the Lord.

Hannah was absolutely trusting the Lord. She poured out her soul to him. And she made a vow that would allow her to see her son only once a year. She asked for a son only to be consecrated for the service of the Lord. When the Lord grants her petition, she names the child in honour of God’s faithfulness. Elkanah was one with her when he says, “Do what seems best to you … Only let the Lord establish His word.” (Read 1 Samuel 1)

Their marriage stood the test of lack of children, a potential conflict with an in-law and in keeping a vow that one of them made. Are you like Elkanah? Are you like Hannah? How can you change?

Yours in Christ,

Dr. Samson Gandhi