Genesis 21:1-21
We've been looking at faith a lot these past few weeks, and Genesis 21:1-21 touches on it again. However, the faithfulness of God was the message that hit me front and center from today's passage. We're looking into the lives of a number of people and each one is in a different place emotionally and spiritually. Now, here's what struck me--God was faithful to each person right where they were at, circumstances and all. (God is so good!)
So what does Genesis 21:1-21 show us about God's character and His faithfulness? How might you draw on and use what you saw with these people and their circumstances for your own life today? Tami W.
God always provides what people need when they need it. Hagar was willing to receive the grace that God offered, even though she was the one who was cast out. In my opinion, this is where many, many people get off track. We expect God to work in a certain way and when He doesn't, we refuse His grace. Think of it this way, Hagar never did anything wrong in relation to Abraham or Sarah. It's not like she could have refused Sarah's order to have sexual relations with Abraham. It's not her fault that she conceived. Yet she is cast out and treated harshly. This is all a part of God's plan. What is amazing about Hagar is that she RECEIVES the grace that God shows her. I know many people who refuse to receive the grace that God is giving because they are upset with the circumstances of their lives. They are angry at God and many times it is because of what they have done wrong...and God still dispenses grace. Some times they have done nothing wrong, it is just part of God's plan that things have turned out wrong. I've never seen Hagar in light of God's grace before. Thanks for putting this slant on it.
I love that God helped Hagar and her son while in need in the desert, and I am not trying to question God here, but let me just say this. I feel sad that Abraham cast out the two. Was it the boy's fault he wasn't born to Sara? It just makes me a little sad, though of course all these years later I can see the benefits of it.
It should be no great mystery to any of us that God intended to save the whole world. He expects us to make peace amongst all peoples. We are one in HIS eyes. Jesus's good news is for every person on earth. Now if only we could get our heart and head and hands working in unison. Lets Humble ourselves and pray!
I totally agree with Mary. God''s character is totally opposite of mine. His thoughts our not my thoughts and His ways are not my ways. He hasn't broken a promise yet and never will. Why wouldn't anyone want to draw near to a God that is faithful and loving? This story reminds me of my oldest son who lives with his mom. She was never my wife...in fact she was a mistress of mine. I ended up fathering a child while I was engaged to another woman. Through God, my fiance was able to forgive me and we are married today for 11 years this February. But this story reminded me of my son and his mother...something like Hagar and Ismael. They had to leave as did my son and his mom. They left the city and moved about 2 hours away. This story let's me know that God loves them dearly and will take care of them, because God is a father to the fatherless. Thank you Lord for watching over my son and his mom!
Thank you all for the comments. Thank you for the reminder of God's Grace:)
I just wanted to say thank you to Sibin. Thank you for sharing your story. What a testimony. Thank you for the reminder of God's Grace, and how He works things out. Thank you for being so transparent. It is just that reminder for us all to share what God has done in our lives with others. God is a great God we serve. Thank you for your openness. It was an encouragement.
Genesis 21:1-21 tells me that whatever God promises, He delivers. There is no ifs or maybes. We just need to have faith in Him as did Abraham, Isaac, Moses, Paul and many more. God is always faithful, and if we keep in His Word daily and ask Him to strengthen our faith and be in our lives, then we too can be like Abraham and the others who have served Him well. Stand up for Jesus when anyone tries to tell you otherwise.
I too,would like to thank Sibin for his testimony,I have done many wrongs in my life and will most likly make more,but I know Gods promises He always keeps and His amazing grace is always with me and you.Yes!we need to stand up for Jesus and praise God.