Jordan Magelssen, Creative Arts Pastor

“By faith, Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore, from one man, and him as good as dead, were born descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as many as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore.”

Hebrews 11:11-2, ESV

Now, a few thousand years ago, people did live longer than we do now. However, at 90 years of age, Sarah was definitely past the natural age for childbearing. But the Bible says it was her faith (along with God’s power and faithfulness to keep His promises) that contributed to her ability to conceive her son Isaac. Genesis tells the story: “Now the Lord was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did for Sarah what he had promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him. Abraham gave the name Isaac to the son Sarah bore him” (Genesis 21:1-3).

Sarah believed that God would keep his promise. She knew he was faithful, and her faith ultimately gave birth to the nation of people that God would call his own, the Israelites. 

Don’t worry; Sarah’s exact circumstances aren’t for everyone. At 90, you’ll more likely be able to spend your days dusting the heirloom furniture rather than baby-proofing a house. But, consider your own faith. Do you hold tightly to God’s promises? Do you trust that in faith, he will work for the good of those who love him? Do you believe that he will provide a way when you are tempted? Are you full of assurance that God so loved the world that he sent his Son to take your place and deliver you from your sins? 

As we continue our study in this Advent season, let this be your prayer today:

God, give me a deep hunger for your word and give me faith to trust each and every one of your promises. Amen.