In Chapters 12 to 21 has been a total of 25 years and Abraham has been waiting for God’s promise of a son. In this chapter Abraham’s son, Isaac, is born when he is 100 years old and this chapter covers about 33 years. Approximately 1896 BC. Abrahams story has been the Old Testament example of the New Testament believer. He is the example of what it means to grow in faith. Romans 4:16 says Abraham is the father of all who believe.
Verses 1-7
Sarah becomes pregnant and gave birth to a son and named him Isaac.
(Verse 2 says) at the set time. God knew the right moment for Isaac to be born and God knows the right moment for the things that he’s planned in our life.
She was 90 years old and Abraham was 100 years old.
Isaac was circumcised on the 8th day.
Verses 8-14
Abraham prepared a great feast when Isaac was weaned.
Sarah became angry at Hagar’s son for mocking and wanted her and her teenage son (Ishmael) banished.
God told Abraham to do as Sarah wanted.
God’s blessing on Abraham’s family was through his son Isaac but God assured him that Ishmael’s family would also prosper.
Abraham sent Hagar away with some bread and water. The word drive out or cast out was a contractual agreement as in divorce.
Verses 15-21
Hagar and Ishmael wandered in the wilderness until the water ran out. They were desperate and wept.
The Angel of the Lord appeared and told her to “fear not” because God was planning to make Ishmael into a great nation.
Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water which was there.
Ishmael grew up and lived in the wilderness of Paran.
The two covenants of Isaac (Jewish) and Ishmael (Arabs) cannot coexist.
Verses 22-34
In these verses Abimelech and Abraham make a covenant of peace and the location of their treaty became known as Beersheba.
God looked out for Hagar even though she had been cast away and met her needs.
How many times have we come to our own desert and felt hopeless?
Fear not! God has it all figured out. God always keeps His word and God always keeps His promises.
Fear is everywhere and can cause you to miss out on the blessings of God.
Sometimes we can get caught up in what we think is a problem where everything looks hopeless.
Whatever problems or circumstances we are in God will never leave us nor forsake us according to Deuteronomy 31:6. He will instead lead us because He is our Good Shepherd.
Be careful of those around you who are always afraid because they will want to speak more fear into us. We can be around people who are full of fear or we can be around people who are full of faith. Don’t let someone else’s fear impact your soul!
