Gifts From God

Guess what? Christmas is just five Fridays away, and the season of gift-giving is on everyone’s mind. Speaking of gifts, children are among the most precious gifts from God (Psalm 127:3). But what happens when that gift seems delayed?

The Bible highlights seven women who faced the challenge of infertility: Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Hannah, Manoah’s wife (Samson’s mother), Elizabeth, and Michal. Their stories reveal profound lessons about waiting on God and the attitudes of our hearts.

The 6 Who Received Their Miracle

Of these seven women, six eventually received their miracle children—gifts that became pivotal in God’s plan:

• Sarah gave birth to Isaac, the child of promise (Genesis 21:1-3).
• Rebekah bore Esau and Jacob, with Jacob becoming the father of the twelve tribes of Israel (Genesis 25:21-23).
• Rachel became the mother of Joseph, who saved nations, and Benjamin (Genesis 30:22-24; Genesis 35:16-18).
• Hannah prayed earnestly and was blessed with Samuel, a prophet who shaped Israel’s destiny (1 Samuel 1:19-20).
• Manoah’s wife gave birth to Samson, whose strength delivered Israel from their enemies (Judges 13:2-24).
• Elizabeth gave birth to John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus (Luke 1:13-17).

Each of these women waited patiently, and their children weren’t just blessings to their families—they shaped the course of history.

Michal: the unfortunate one

Michal, the daughter of Saul and wife of David, is the exception. She died barren, and her story offers a critical warning. When David celebrated before the Lord with joyous dancing, Michal mocked him in her heart and with her words (2 Samuel 6:16-23). Though David didn’t curse her, her bitterness seemed to invoke spiritual consequences.

Michal’s barrenness reminds us that envy and bitterness block the flow of joy and blessings in our lives. A heart filled with bitterness struggles to make room for gifts from God.

Key Takeaways

These stories offer powerful lessons for us today:

1. Delay is not denial. God’s timing is always perfect. Your waiting season might be preparing you for a greater purpose.
2. Good things take time. Every one of these women saw the fruit of their patience, and their blessings were extraordinary.
3. Celebrate others’ joy. Rejoice with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15). Don’t let bitterness or envy rob you of your own blessings.

I know this post talks about children, but God gives so many other gifts.

In fact, EVERY good gift and every perfect gift is from above – James 1:17.

No matter what gift you are trusting God for, remember that He is faithful. Trust His timing, guard your heart, and celebrate the victories around you. When your gift arrives, the joy will far surpass the pain of waiting.

Have a great weekend.