Text:
Genesis 16:1-6; 15&16; 21:1-3; Hebrews 11:11
Memory Verse:
“By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised” (Hebrews 11:11).
In the course of the marriage journey so many unforeseen things happen calling for the support of one spouse by the other. These things vary in their intensity and effect and may be quite unnerving. Challenges may come in the form of an accident or illness which may lead to a long hospitalization, a loss of job and consequently loss of financial support. Life is quite unpredictable. When the unexpected happens, what do you do?
Abraham left Haran at 75 already married to Sarah who was barren (Genesis 11:30). They headed for Canaan and lived there childless till Sarah made the damning suggestion offering Hagar to her husband in Genesis 16:3.
Up till then he had remained faithful to her. The fact that a child resulted shows that the problem of infertility was probably from Sarah. The events that followed till she bore him a son thirteen years later still portray Abraham as a
loyal spouse who, in spite of his deep desire for a child, stayed true to his marriage and spouse.
Ruth was another loyal spouse who continued to be faithful to her mother-inlaw even after her husband’s death (Ruth 1:16&17). How loyal are you to a sick spouse or one who has been unable to get a good job after he lost one?
You must pray for the grace to be faithful and loyal to your vows. God, who eventually gave Sarah the power to conceive seed, is still the same. Remain loyal by His grace.
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, please strengthen me through life’s challenges.
2. God, please strengthen every believer going through a difficult time.
