Genesis 16-18
Chapter 16 -- Sarah doesn't think God will give her a child and so takes matters into her own hands so that God's promise to Abraham will come true. She gives Hagar to Abraham who conceives a son. And like most women, Sarah didn't really think through what she was doing and wasn't happy with this result. I think as women, we want so badly for our men to succeed that we often try to help God's plans along. Waiting on His timing can be very difficult and sometimes it's hard to see what harm could come from giving it a little push; but there are always consequences for our impatience.
Chapter 17 -- God's compassion is so great. Though Sarah and Abraham tried to find their own solution to their problems, God doesn't Ishmael for it. He doesn't have an easy life, but nor is he cursed for the failings of his father. God made room for Ishmael in His plans for Abraham's future generations. I wonder how hard it must have been for Ishmael, growing up in the shadow of his promised half-brother. I wonder if he felt like he was not enough to please his father. I have always felt pity for him for he could not help the circumstances of his birth. I wonder if he felt loved at all or simply passed over.
Chapter 18- The way Abraham talks to God has always amazed me; the familiarity and ease (with respect) but with very little fear. I always thought it was crazy how he bartered with God in this chapter, sighting His character and sense of justice not to destroy the righteous along with the wicked in Sodom and Gomorrah. Would that I had that courage in my prayers. I often get stuck in one-sided conversations and don't really expect to receive a real answer. I know God answers prayers, but I don't really expect or look for them as I'm going about my day. God, please make me aware of Your presence and voice in my life. I want to talk with You, not at You.
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