What can we learn from Abram's choice of Sarai as his wife? Genesis 11:29 — The Simple Statement “And Abram and Nahor took wives for themselves. Abram’s wife was named Sarai.” Family Lineage and Covenant Purity • Sarai was Abram’s close relative, later identified as his half-sister (Genesis 20:12), keeping the covenant line within Terah’s household. • The choice foreshadows God’s later concern that the promised line stay distinct from surrounding idolatry (Genesis 24:3-4). • Abram’s marriage aligned with divine purpose rather than political convenience. Faith Over Fertility • “Sarai was barren; she had no child.” (Genesis 11:30) The union began with an impossible situation, highlighting that future offspring would be a miracle of grace. • Romans 4:19 notes Abram’s faith despite “the deadness of Sarah’s womb,” underscoring reliance on God, not biology. • Their marriage teaches that obedience often precedes understanding. Shared Journey of Obedience • When God said, “Go from your country… to the land that I will show you” (Genesis 12:1), Sarai went with Abram, embracing pilgrimage. • Hebrews 11:8-11 honors both husband and wife as partners in faith. • The relationship models teamwork for every believing couple, “heirs together of the grace of life” (1 Peter 3:7). Complementary Roles in Covenant Marriage • Scripture commends Sarah’s respectful disposition: “Sarah obeyed Abraham and called him lord” (1 Peter 3:6). • Abram is called to sacrificial headship: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church.” (Ephesians 5:25) • Their dynamics illustrate loving leadership and willing support—distinct yet harmonious. Patience That Produces Praise • Years elapsed before Isaac’s birth, forging endurance (Romans 5:3-4). • The delay magnified God’s faithfulness, proving the wisdom of Abram’s original choice. Legacy for Every Household of Faith • This marriage launched the lineage that birthed Israel and, ultimately, the Messiah (Matthew 1:1). • Galatians 3:29 declares believers heirs of Abram’s blessing, a stream that began with his union to Sarai. Takeaway Summary • The marriage kept the covenant line pure. • It showcased faith over human capability. • It modeled complementary, God-honoring roles. • Long obedience highlighted divine faithfulness. • Present-day believers draw encouragement from their example of unity, perseverance, and trust in God’s promises. |
    |