How can we trust God when faced with difficult family decisions like Abraham? Setting the scene: Abraham’s heartache “Now this matter greatly distressed Abraham because it concerned his son.” (Genesis 21:11) Sarah’s demand to send Hagar and Ishmael away pierced Abraham’s heart. He loved both sons, yet he was caught between the command of the Lord and the cry of his flesh. In our own families, choices can feel just as impossible—so how do we trust God when obedience seems to tear at our deepest affections? God’s answer in the crisis “But God said to Abraham, ‘Do not be distressed about the boy or your maidservant. Listen to everything Sarah tells you, for through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned. And I will make the son of the maidservant into a nation also, because he is your offspring.’” (Genesis 21:12-13) Notice what God provided: • A clear instruction (“Listen to everything Sarah tells you”). • A reaffirmed promise (“through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned”). • A compassionate assurance for Ishmael (“I will make the son…into a nation”). The Lord addressed both Abraham’s obedience and his concern for his son. Trust grew not by ignoring the pain but by resting in God’s unbreakable word. Lessons for our own difficult family decisions • Trust is rooted in revelation, not feelings. – Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart…He will make your paths straight.” Feelings may fluctuate; God’s counsel stands firm. • Obedience often precedes understanding. – Hebrews 11:8: “By faith Abraham…obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.” We may only see the wisdom of God’s command after we obey. • God’s promises encompass everyone involved. – Genesis 21:13 shows the Lord caring for Ishmael even while directing Abraham to focus on Isaac. – Romans 8:28 affirms that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” • Provision follows obedience. – Genesis 21:19: “Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water.” Once Abraham obeyed, God supplied water in the desert for Hagar and Ishmael. – Philippians 4:19: “My God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” Practical steps to trust like Abraham 1. Seek God’s word first. • Regular time in Scripture tunes the heart to recognize His instructions (Psalm 119:105). 2. Surrender the outcome. • Abraham released Ishmael to God’s care; we relinquish control and entrust loved ones to the Lord (1 Peter 5:7). 3. Act promptly on clear guidance. • Genesis 21:14 shows Abraham rising early to obey. Delay breeds doubt; prompt obedience strengthens faith. 4. Watch for God’s confirmation. • After Abraham obeyed, the Lord’s protection over Ishmael confirmed the wisdom of the decision (Genesis 21:20). 5. Remember previous faith victories. • Hebrews 11:17-19 points to the later sacrifice of Isaac—Abraham’s earlier trust prepared him for greater tests. Recalling past deliverances fuels present confidence. Encouragement for today Difficult family choices often expose the tension between affection and allegiance. Yet the same God who guided Abraham still speaks through His inerrant Word, attends to every concern, and fulfills every promise. When He calls for costly obedience, His character guarantees that no one entrusted to Him will be overlooked. Lean into the certainty of His voice, act on His direction, and expect His provision—just as Abraham did in the desert of Beersheba. |
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