Topical Encyclopedia Sarah, originally named Sarai, is a prominent figure in the Bible, known for her role as the wife of Abraham and the mother of Isaac. Her account is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, where her journey of faith unfolds amidst trials and divine promises.Promise and Doubt Sarah's faith journey is intricately linked to God's covenant with Abraham. In Genesis 12:1-3, God calls Abraham to leave his homeland and promises to make him a great nation. Despite her advanced age and barrenness, Sarah is included in this promise. Her initial response to God's promise is marked by doubt and laughter. In Genesis 18:12 , when she overhears the Lord's promise that she will bear a son, she laughs to herself, saying, "After I am worn out and my master is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Faith and Fulfillment Despite her initial skepticism, Sarah's faith grows over time. Hebrews 11:11 commends her faith: "By faith Sarah, even though she was barren and beyond the proper age, was enabled to conceive a child because she considered Him faithful who had promised." This verse highlights her eventual trust in God's faithfulness, leading to the miraculous birth of Isaac, whose name means "laughter," reflecting both her initial doubt and ultimate joy. Testing and Growth Sarah's faith is further tested through the events surrounding Hagar and Ishmael. In Genesis 16, Sarah, in a moment of doubt, gives her maidservant Hagar to Abraham to bear a child. This decision leads to tension and conflict, yet it also serves as a catalyst for Sarah's spiritual growth. Through these trials, Sarah learns to rely more fully on God's promises rather than her own understanding. Legacy of Faith Sarah's faith is integral to the narrative of God's covenant people. Her account is a testament to the transformative power of faith, even amidst human frailty. In 1 Peter 3:6 , Sarah is held up as an example for Christian women, "like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him lord. You are her children if you do what is right and do not give way to fear." Sarah's journey from doubt to faith is a powerful reminder of God's ability to fulfill His promises, regardless of human limitations. Her life encourages believers to trust in God's timing and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem impossible. Subtopics Sarah: Also Called Sarai is Sterile; Gives Her Handmaiden, Hagar, to Abraham As a Concubine Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Character of Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Death and Burial of Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Gives Birth to Isaac Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Her Jealousy of Hagar Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Her Miraculous Conception of Isaac Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Name Changed from Sarai to Sarah Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Near of Kin to Abraham Sarah: Also Called Sarai: Wife of Abraham Related Terms |