SCRIPTURE: Genesis 17:15-27
OBSERVATION:
Continues from previous verses, now the blessing given to Sarah (mother of nations).
Isaac’s name, which means “he laughs”, was a constant reminder to Abraham that he doubted God.
Ishmael, who was Abraham’s son and heir according to Mesopotamian law, was not the son that God would work out His plan of salvation.
Ishmael will still be blessed, but he will not be the son of the promise (Galatians 4:21-31). Ishmael is considered a great prophet in Islam, and the father of the Arabs.
This must have been a difficult day for the males, when all of them were circumcised.
APPLICATION:
God is able to do the impossible, a helpful reminder today when we feel the situation is impossible.
Have we ever doubted (or laughed at) God’s promises? I know I have spoken God’s promises to people in difficult circumstances, and they have doubted or even laughed.
It is ironic that both Jews and Arabs come from the same source, yet now live in such bitter opposition and enmity.
Its interesting to consider that God has been at work unfolding His plan for generations, we are a part of His-Story!
We are called children of Abraham if we believe, like him (Galatians 3:6-9).
PRAYER:
Lord, sometimes it is hard to relate to stories from another time, so far from where we are today. Yet it is amazing to consider that all of history holds together as one story, Your story, the unfolding plan of salvation. Thank You for holding my life, and all of history, together. Amen.
As Abraham prayed for his children, I too need to pray for my children daily. I think of the story of Job. Whatever our fears, whatever our cares, we need to lay it all before the Lord in prayer. Our greatest desire for our children is that they too walk each day with their risen Saviour.
As Abraham was obedient and did what the Lord asked in fulfilling the covenant, I too need to do what the Lord asks me to do without excuse. How am I, how is my famly different from other families because I walk in the Lord’s Ways? By simple obedience to His Word. By His Spirit living within me. Create in me a clean heart oh God is my song this morning.
Create in me a clean heart oh God,
And renew a right spirit within me.
Create in me a clean heart oh God,
And renew a right spirit within me.
And cast me not away from Thy presence oh Lord,
And take not Thy Holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation,
And renew a right spirit within me.