In Genesis 16:7-12 we see the Angel of the LORD as a comforter and counselor. Hagar was Sarai’s maid, and servant to her needs. Sarai’s impatience and lack of faith in God resulted in Sarai giving Hagar as a concubine to Abram (Abraham). It is not said how much Hagar liked or cared for Sarai prior to this arrangement, however it is clear that Hagar despised Sarai afterwards. In these times, a second wife or concubine would not have the full rights of the first or principal wife, and being a slave, Hagar’s children belonged to Sarai. It’s understandable why Hagar could have been bitter in these circumstances of raising children without the full benefits of the family heritage being guaranteed to them. And given Sarai’s poor treatment of Hagar in subsequent scripture, it’s possible that Sarai was not hospitable to Hagar before she conceived Ishmael.
As a result of this inhospitality, Hagar fled to the wilderness. In a time of great danger, sadness, and need, the Angel of the LORD met her there in that struggle. Regardless of how Hagar found herself in this circumstance, or Hagar’s part in the rising tensions, the Angel of the LORD served as a comforter in Genesis 16:11 .
Are you hearing the afflictions of your wife? When she is doing her own activities, and you’re busy with whatever tasks or hobbies you are doing, do you notice her expressions? If she posts to social media… do you read her posts? Do you perceive her struggles as ‘her problem’, and concern yourself with your own wants and needs? Are you your wife’s comforter, or does she turn to others?
Christ cares for our needs, even in the midst of consequences of our own actions. As we will see numerous times in the Bible ahead, as Israel falls into idolatry time and time again, God hears Israel’s cries, and comes to her aid. Likewise, we should comfort our wives. Too often as “men of action” we may simply offer ways to fix a problem, brainstorm courses of action to resolve an issue, or we may simply point out the error of our wives ways. Perhaps we are instead to simply encourage with the promises of God. When we are in the midst of a situation ourselves, we often “cannot see the forest for the trees”. Your wife similarly can feel overwhelmed, and get ‘stuck’ on some small issue. We can provide comfort to our wives by recounting her past challenges God helped her overcome. Recount a Bible passage that relates to a similar or larger problem that God was faithful in.