There are times when we find ourselves in circumstances in life that we don’t ask for and question why God would allow such things to happen. Sometimes we have answers for such questions but more often we do not have answers at all. But the comforting part of being a child of God is that we understand from the Bible that God allows such difficult circumstances in order to enable us to recognize who He is. The moment we understand who He is, it becomes easy for us to be empowered by God to handle any situation in life. The thought for our reflection this morning is, “Our God Plans Our Future, Provides Our Needs and Fill Us With His Promises His Presence to Face Our Future”
'“Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation”. Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. God was with the boy as he grew up'
(Genesis 21:18-20)
At a time when Hagar was worried about her son Ishmael’s life and his future, God spoke to her the above words to ensure her that He was in control of his life.
1. Our God plans our future.
God’s words to Hagar, “for I will make him into a great nation” echo His promise to Abraham regarding Ishmael in Genesis 21:13. We know very well that Hagar and Ishmael were not part of His covenant or His chosen people. But He still promised to make Ishmael into a great nation. Do we face a bleak or uncertain future?
2. Our God provides for our present.
The sentence “She saw a well of water” is a testimony to God’s faithful provision to meet Hagar and Ishmael’s immediate need. God’s provision of water in the wilderness at a time when Ishmael was dying due to thirst, reminds us of God’s provision of water in the wilderness for the Israelites, later. Are we doubting God’s ability to provide to meet the need that we are facing desperately now?
3. Our God’s promise of His presence would be all sufficient for us.
The Bible says “God was with the boy as he grew up”. No matter what Ishmael’s situation was then, since God promised to be with him, Ishmael did have a bright future. We read that God gave Ishmael favour in the eyes of others and provided him with the skill to become an archer (Genesis 21:20). Are we finding it difficult to ignore our circumstances and trust that God's presence would be with us as He promised?
Let’s put our total trust in His plans, His provision and His promise of His presence. Let’s end today’s reflections with Thomas a Kempis’ prayer in his book “The Imitation of Christ”.
“In thee, therefore, O Lord God, I put all my hope… For many friends shall not profit, nor strong helpers be able to succor, nor prudent counsellors to give a useful answer, nor the books of the learned to console, nor any precious substance to deliver, nor any secret and beautiful place to give shelter, if Thou Thyself do not assist, help, strengthen, comfort, instruct, keep in safety… To hope in Thee above all things is the strongest solace of Thy servants”.
Amen!
Blessed weekend!