What can we learn from Hagar's obedience to "return to your mistress"? Setting the Scene Hagar, an Egyptian servant in Abram’s household, flees into the wilderness after harsh treatment by Sarai. Pregnant, alone, and afraid, she encounters “the Angel of the LORD” who speaks directly into her crisis. The Command: “Return to Your Mistress” “Then the Angel of the LORD told her, ‘Return to your mistress and submit to her authority.’” (Genesis 16:9) Lessons from Hagar’s Obedience • Submission in difficulty – Hagar’s circumstances were unjust, yet she yielded to the directive. True submission often shows its depth when situations are unfair (cf. 1 Peter 2:18-20). • Trust in God’s promise over present pain – The Angel coupled the command with assurance: “I will greatly multiply your offspring so that they cannot be counted” (Genesis 16:10). Hagar obeyed because she believed God’s word would overrule Sarai’s harshness. • God’s purposes can involve returning, not escaping – Our natural impulse is flight, but God may send us back to refine character and fulfill His plan (James 1:2-4). • Obedience opens the door to revelation – Only after Hagar submitted did she learn Ishmael’s destiny (Genesis 16:11-12). Yielding hearts are in the best position to receive deeper truths. • Suffering with God is safer than comfort without Him – The wilderness felt free but hopeless; the household felt hard but held divine promise. Choosing God-directed hardship leads to lasting blessing (Romans 8:18). Obedience and God’s Character • He sees: “You are the God who sees me” (Genesis 16:13). Submission is never unseen; the Lord notes every tear and every step back toward duty (Psalm 56:8). • He hears: Ishmael’s name means “God hears.” Obedience is paired with confidence that our cries reach heaven (Psalm 34:17). • He rewards: Promises of innumerable descendants mirror blessings later given to Abraham (Genesis 22:17). God does not differentiate between master and servant when dispensing grace to the obedient (Acts 10:34-35). Living It Out Today • Honor rightful authority—even flawed—unless it contradicts God’s law (Romans 13:1-2; Acts 5:29). • Anchor obedience in God’s promises, not human fairness. • View painful assignments as opportunities for growth and testimony. • Remember that the One who sends you back also goes with you (Hebrews 13:5). |
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