How can we trust God's guidance when facing uncertain situations like Hagar? Setting the Scene “Early in the morning Abraham got up, took bread and a skin of water, and put them on Hagar’s shoulders. Then he sent her off with the boy, and she wandered into the Wilderness of Beersheba.” — Genesis 21:14 Hagar wakes to a dawn of exile—no roadmap, limited supplies, only desert ahead. Yet the God who had met her once before (Genesis 16:13) is already arranging her rescue. What looks like Abraham’s decision is, in reality, God moving His covenant story forward exactly as promised (Genesis 21:12). God’s Faithful Guidance in the Wilderness • God sees before we arrive: “The Angel of God called to Hagar from heaven…” (Genesis 21:17). • God speaks into fear: “Do not be afraid; for God has heard the voice of the boy where he lies.” (v. 17). • God shows the next step: “Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water.” (v. 19). • God secures the future: “God was with the boy as he grew…” (v. 20). Principles for Trusting God in Uncertain Times • God’s sovereignty is never suspended. – Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” • Guidance begins with God’s Word already spoken. • God guides progressively—light for the next step, not the entire map. – Psalm 32:8; 2 Corinthians 5:7 • His promises outweigh appearances. Steps to Follow When You’re Unsure 1. Return to what God has said. – Genesis 21:12 reminds Abraham; Genesis 16:10 reminded Hagar. 2. Release the illusion of control. – Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart…” 3. Reach for immediate obedience. – Abraham “got up early”; Hagar “lifted the boy… and departed.” 4. Recognize God’s provision may be right beside you. – The well was there before Hagar saw it (v. 19). 5. Rest in God’s unbreakable presence. – Hebrews 13:5-6; Isaiah 41:10 Promises to Hold On To • Guidance: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” (Psalm 32:8) • Peace: “You will keep in perfect peace the mind that is steadfast.” (Isaiah 26:3) • Provision: “Seek first the kingdom of God… and all these things will be added.” (Matthew 6:33) • Protection: “The LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” (Psalm 121:8) Living It Out • Memorize one promise and rehearse it when uncertainty surfaces. • Journal the “desert places” in your life, then note any “wells” God has already provided. • Share a past instance of God’s guidance with someone who needs encouragement today. |
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