Genesis 16:1-16

Why does the Lord prolong the waiting period between promise and fulfillment? Because the wait is the kiln in which faith is forged. The story of Sarai and Hagar teaches that during a season of waiting it is crucial to entrust oneself to the Lord and to his promises. The Lord is most glorified when his people trust in his word. And that trust is borne out in the wait. His people will never obtain the promise through their own plans and wisdom, relying on the power of the flesh. His people obtain the promise through faith throughout the wait.