Galatians 4:20-31, Genesis 21:1-34
The birth of Isaac wasn’t a surprise; God always fulfills his promises.
It was truly astonishing that Sarah bore Abraham a son in his old age; Abraham being one hundred years old when Isaac was born.
Sarah laughs with joy at the birth of her son. Others may have laughed mockingly, but no one could laugh at the fact that what seemed impossible physically had not been impossible for the Lord God to accomplish. God’s purposes required the birth of the promised Isaac.
Ishmael and his mother were cast off from Abraham but God heard the cry of Ishmael and protected and provided for him in the wilderness. He promised Ishmael that he would receive blessings because he was Abraham’s son.
Abimelech understands that Abraham is blessed by the Lord. Abimelech and Abraham swear an oath together which is very significant in the Lord’s plan of redemption and an important step forward regarding God’s pledge of land to Abraham and his offspring.
Abraham is now at peace with Abimelech. He has permanent water rights and a place to dwell in the promised land of Canaan so that he is no longer a nomad.
“Great is Thy faithfulness!”
“Great is Thy faithfulness!”
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided-
“Great is Thy faithfulness,”
Lord, unto me!…