Learn insights from the life of Sarah and the importance of relying on a powerful and gracious God.
Talking Points:
- Sarah was married to Abraham and braved starting a new life in a new land with her husband. Genesis 12:1-3
- Sarah was barren for most of her life but God blessed her with a child. In her old age, God gave her the gift of a son named Isaac. Genesis 17:15-19, Genesis 21:1-7
- Sarah was a mixed bag like all of us. She had moments of faithfulness to God and times when she grew impatient and made destructive choices. Genesis 16:1-6, Hebrews 11:8-11
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What’s the hardest thing you’ve had to do in your life so far? What helped you get through it? How did it change you?
- Read Genesis 12:1-3. Identify the promises God made to Abraham. How do you think the initial conversation between Abraham and Sarah went when he announced that they needed to move? How have or would you respond if your spouse asked you to pick up your life to start new somewhere else?
- How do you think Sarah felt hearing promises of descendants for Abraham, all the while knowing she was barren? Describe a time you felt inadequate or ill-equipped to accomplish something.
- Read Galatians 3:6-8,14. What made Abraham righteous in God’s eyes? How did God fulfill the blessing to all nations he promised in Genesis?
- Read Genesis 16:1-6. Describe Sarah’s mindset based on her words and actions in this passage. How did her perspective affect her actions? Have you ever felt like God wasn’t going to come through for you? Explain.
- How have you been guilty of trying to play God in your life, trying to be the “fixer” of a situation? How did it turn out? In hindsight, how do you think Sarah would evaluate her attempts at trying to fix things?
- Read Genesis 17:15-19. God boldly pronounces the promise of a child for Abraham and Sarah. Why do you think God waited so long to fulfill this part of his promise to them? What do you think God was communicating to Abraham through this promise?
- Share a time God miraculously worked in your life that demonstrated his power and authority.
- Read Genesis 18:9-15. Describe Sarah’s attitude toward God in this passage. Why do you think she laughed and then lied about it? How have you “laughed” at God’s promises or plans for your life?
- Read Genesis 21:1-7. Describe Sarah’s attitude toward God in this passage. What was the source of her laughter this time?
- Read Hebrews 11:8-11. Even though Sarah had her ups and downs with God, she was recognized among some of the most faithful. What does this say about God and his grace?
- How does Sarah’s story encourage you?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
This is part of the Women of the Old Testament series.
