Standing on the Promise
Genesis 26:1-35

Life has a way of just happening.  Sometimes we can't win for trying.  Either the world is against us, or the people in the world are against us.

Isaac certainly saw this.  A famine in the land threatened his survival.  His only hope was to go to a kingdom of men who did not appear to fear God, who might kill him to gain his wife.  Later, Isaac saw hardship as he tried to separate himself from them, doing as much as he could to keep the peace with men who insisted on taking what he worked hard to provide.

How could he remain strong against such adversity?  We see twice in this chapter the source of his strength.  At times when things looked darkest, when his life was threatened by famine and water for his flocks seemed uncertain, the Lord stepped in and reminded Isaac of the promises he inherited, promises made to his father Abraham.  The Lord had not forgotten him -- he would still be the seed of blessing to all nations, and his descendants would be without number.

We, too, can fall back on God's promises to us.  He has promised to always be with us.  He has promised to comfort us in our sorrows.  He has promised to provide for our needs.  He has promised us everlasting life through His Son.  He has promised to return one day, rebuilding the world that was broken by sin.

As Isaac was reminded of God's promises, he saw God's hand in his life, giving him peace, security, provision and growth.  As we are reminded of His promises to us, let us turn our eyes on Him and see the blessings He gives us each day of our lives.

Father, in the midst of everything that we can't control, we want to thank you that you are in control.  You are faithful.  We hold onto the promises that you have made, that you will be our Father and we, your children.  Give us peace.  Give us comfort.  Give us wisdom.  Give us the desire to follow you wherever you lead, even through the darkest valleys and steepest climbs, knowing you are with us every step of the way.  In Jesus' name, amen.