(story told in Genesis 11-23)
Sarah, originally named Sarai, was Abraham’s wife and a key figure in God’s plan for His people. When God called Abraham to leave his home and go to a new land, Sarah went with him, showing trust and courage. Though they were childless and growing old, God promised that Abraham would become the father of many nations—and that Sarah would bear a son.
Years passed, and the promise still hadn’t come true. Doubt and impatience led Sarah to give her servant Hagar to Abraham so that a child could be born through her. Hagar gave birth to Ishmael, but this caused tension and pain within the family. Even so, God continued to assure Abraham that Sarah herself would have a child.
When three visitors came to Abraham one day, they told him that Sarah would have a son within a year. Sarah laughed to herself, thinking it was impossible at her age. Yet God reminded her that nothing is too hard for Him. True to His word, Sarah gave birth to Isaac, whose name means “laughter,” because God turned her doubt into joy.
Sarah loved and protected her son, asking Abraham to send Hagar and Ishmael away to ensure Isaac’s future. Though this was a difficult decision, God promised to care for them too. Sarah lived to be 127 years old, and Abraham mourned deeply when she passed away.
Sarah’s life teaches that faith sometimes wavers, but God’s promises never fail. Her story reminds us that even in waiting and weakness, God can bring about joy and fulfillment in His perfect time.