“And the LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did unto Sarah as he had spoken.”
This verse is a significant turning point in the story of Abraham and Sarah, as it marks the fulfillment of God’s promise to give them a son. To understand the context and significance of Genesis 21:1, let’s explore the broader narrative leading up to this point.
Abraham and Sarah had been married for many years, but Sarah was unable to conceive a child. God had made a covenant with Abraham, promising to bless him and make him the father of a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3; 15:1-6). However, as the years passed without a child, Sarah grew impatient and suggested that Abraham have a child with her maidservant, Hagar (Genesis 16:1-3). Abraham agreed, and Hagar gave birth to a son named Ishmael.
Thirteen years later, when Abraham was 99 years old and Sarah was 90, God appeared to Abraham and reaffirmed His promise, declaring that Sarah would bear a son (Genesis 17:15-19). Sarah overheard this conversation and laughed in disbelief, considering her old age and the fact that Abraham was also advanced in years. But God responded by saying, “Is anything too hard for the LORD?” (Genesis 18:14).
In Genesis 21:1, we see the culmination of God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah. It begins with the statement, “And the LORD visited Sarah as he had said.” This “visitation” refers to God’s intervention in Sarah’s life to bring about the promised birth. It is a reminder that God is faithful to His word and will fulfill His promises.
The verse continues, “and the LORD did unto Sarah as he had spoken.” Here, we see the power of God’s spoken word. He spoke the promise of a son to Abraham, and now, in His perfect timing, He brings it to pass. This emphasizes the authority and reliability of God’s spoken word. What God declares, He fulfills.
Genesis 21:2-7 further describes the birth of Sarah’s son. Sarah conceives and gives birth to Isaac, whose name means “laughter.” Sarah acknowledges that God has brought her laughter, stating, “God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me” (Genesis 21:6).
This chapter marks a significant milestone in God’s plan of redemption, as Isaac becomes the child of promise—the seed through whom God’s covenant with Abraham will be carried forward. Isaac’s birth illustrates God’s faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. It also underscores the truth that nothing is too difficult for God.
In summary, Genesis 21:1 is a pivotal verse in the story of Abraham and Sarah, highlighting the fulfillment of God’s promise to give them a son. It reminds us of God’s faithfulness, His power to bring about the impossible, and the importance of trusting in His word.
