Tucked quietly into Genesis 25 is a woman named Keturah. Her story is brief—only a handful of verses—but what we learn about her carries a deep reminder for anyone who’s ever felt unseen.
Keturah was Abraham’s wife after Sarah passed away. While some translations call her a concubine, that didn’t necessarily mean she wasn’t married. It more likely meant she didn’t hold the same legal status or inheritance rights as Sarah. But her role? Her role still mattered deeply to God.
She bore Abraham six sons—yes, six—long after he was already considered old. Many scholars believe that Abraham’s body was permanently healed after Isaac’s birth, allowing him to father these children in his later years. Keturah’s sons would go on to lead nations, continuing the fulfillment of God’s promise that Abraham would be the father of many.
Her name means “perfume,” and in rabbinic tradition, she’s remembered as “perfumed with good deeds.” We don’t know much else. Her voice isn’t recorded. Her thoughts aren’t written down. We don’t get an ending to her story. But her impact is clear—and eternal.
Maybe your story feels like that sometimes. You’re faithful. You’re serving. You’re showing up day after day. But maybe no one seems to notice. Maybe your name isn’t being celebrated, or your work isn’t being spotlighted. Keturah reminds us that God sees what others don’t.
He saw her. He honored her by including her in His Word. He used her life to bring forth generations. And He valued her enough to make sure her name was remembered.
If you’re walking through a season of quiet faithfulness, don’t lose heart. God sees every role you fill—mother, wife, worker, friend. He sees the moments you’re serving others when no one thanks you. He sees your prayers whispered in the dark. He sees your tears, your perseverance, and your obedience.
And when God sees, He doesn’t just notice—He honors.
Keturah also reminds us that second chapters can be sacred. Abraham was in the later years of his life. This wasn’t the storybook beginning—it was the closing chapters. But God still brought new life, new legacy, and lasting impact through this unexpected relationship.
So whether you’re in a hidden place or a later chapter, your role matters. God may be using you in ways you can’t yet see, and your quiet “yes” could be part of a promise much bigger than you know.
God, thank You for reminding us that being seen by You is what matters most. In a world that values platform and recognition, help us to live with the quiet confidence that our faithfulness never goes unnoticed by You. Give us peace in the hidden seasons and joy in simply walking with You, no matter who’s watching. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Listen to the full episode for more encouragement and biblical insight: Abraham’s Third Wife