“And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking. Wherefore she said Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac. And the thing was very grievous in Abraham’s sight because of his son” (Genesis 21:9-11).
As we begin the last week of this study, we will be bidding farewell to Hagar as she leaves Abraham’s household for good. Isaac has been born and was weaned. His father has a special party to honor this event. Ishmael is caught teasing Isaac. This is the last straw for Sarah. She wants Hagar and her son out of their household and lives. That bondwoman’s son will not share in Isaac’s inheritance. Abraham must see that Isaac was the son through whom His promise would be fulfilled. God will keep His promise given to Hagar concerning Ishmael. Still it is difficult for Abraham to say goodbye to his son. Once again Hagar finds herself wandering in the wilderness. Does she remember her other wilderness experience?
At times we may feel we are floundering around in the desert. And like Hagar, this may not be our first wilderness experience. Do you remember how God brought you through the previous deserts? I remember this saying of long ago, “If God leads you to it, He will lead you through it.” God never brings you to a certain point, then abandons you. Tomorrow we will learn how God, once again, helps Hagar in the desert.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Pray for these international Christmas outreaches:
Côte d’Ivoire—Most churches have all-night services or services until midnight
Koinonia, Hokkaido, Japan—Community Christmas Eve candlelight service with musical presentations and a meal
St. Nazaire, France—Christmas Eve service and Live Nativity concludes
