Elizabeth’s story is told in Luke 1:5-80

Elizabeth: A Story of Hope in the Waiting

Have you ever waited a long time for something really important? Maybe a dream that felt out of reach or a prayer that seemed unanswered? If so, you’ll find encouragement in the story of Elizabeth, a woman who waited a long time—but never gave up hope.

Who Was Elizabeth?

Elizabeth was a faithful woman who lived in the time just before Jesus was born. She was married to Zechariah, a priest, and she came from a family of priests herself. The Bible says she and her husband lived good and upright lives. They followed God and tried to do what was right.

But there was one big sadness in their lives—they had no children. And by the time we meet them in Luke chapter 1, they were both very old. It probably seemed impossible that they would ever have a child.

A Surprising Blessing

Then something amazing happened. While Zechariah was serving in the temple, an angel appeared to him with a message from God: Elizabeth would have a baby! This baby would grow up to be someone very important—John the Baptist, the one who would prepare people for Jesus.

Soon after, Elizabeth became pregnant, just like the angel said. She was filled with joy and thankfulness. She said, “The Lord has done this for me… He has shown me favor and taken away my disgrace” (Luke 1:25).

After all those years of waiting, God had answered her prayer.

A Visit from Mary

During Elizabeth’s pregnancy, something else special happened. Her relative Mary, who was also expecting a miracle baby—Jesus—came to visit her. When Mary arrived, Elizabeth’s baby jumped for joy inside her womb! Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and praised God.

She blessed Mary and recognized that the child Mary was carrying was the Lord. Her words encouraged Mary and helped her see how God was working through both of them.

What We Can Learn from Elizabeth

Elizabeth’s story may be short, but it teaches us a lot:

• God hears us, even when the answer takes time. Elizabeth waited for many years, but God had not forgotten her.
• Faithfulness matters. Elizabeth kept following God even when things didn’t turn out the way she had hoped.
• Joy grows when we celebrate what God is doing—not just in our own lives, but in others too. Elizabeth rejoiced with Mary and shared her joy.
• Encouragement is powerful. Her kind and faith-filled words lifted up Mary during a time of uncertainty.

In the End… Joy

Elizabeth’s life is a beautiful reminder that God’s timing is perfect. She may have waited a long time, but her story ended in joy and praise. God not only gave her a child, but He also allowed her to be part of His great plan to bring Jesus into the world.

If you’re in a season of waiting, hold on to hope. Just like Elizabeth, your story may have some quiet chapters—but God is still at work, and He never forgets His promises.