Genesis 17 - The Greater Blessing

As we enter Chapter 17 we see Abram at ninety has fathered Ishmael through Satah's servant Hagar. For a childless man of 90 I am sure that Ishmael was a joy to his father. Yet God had plans to give Abram a son through Sarah and that son would receive God's blessing.

You would think that the prospect of having a second son and a son by his wife would have given him overwhelming joy, but Abram was doubtful and wanted God to know he was perfectly content with the son that he had. It hurt him a little that this treasure, Ishmael might be overlooked by God.

As we go through our busy lives, how often have we forfeited a greater blessing because we had learned to be content with the world's standard? How often have our prayers been focused on receiving tangible blessings such as jobs, a spouse, success on a test, advancement or health while we overlook our great spiritual needs and discount our sins as if they could be explained away by our circumstances?

The greatest blessing of all is God's salvation and daily grace offered to his children. Walking in fellowship with The Lord, all needs are met and we experience the greatest joy the world has known. God knows we have physical needs and he addresses them. Look back to the text in verse 20: God honors Abram's request and promises a legacy for his son Ishmael. Interesting that there are 12 dynasties that arise from the line of Ishmael compared with the 12 tribes of Israel.

God does care for us in ways beyond our comprehension. And he has a plan for our lives that fulfills his purposes; it may be better than the plans we have made for ourselves. Can you trust him today to order the affairs of your life and will you commit yourself to obeying him as a token of your love for Him?

Dear Heavenly Father, I admit that I have made plans for myself that are second best. I commit myself to following your plan for my life allowing you to have full discretion over the affairs of my life. I look to you to provide for my needs and to allow me to share in your grace and salvation. Have your way today in my life. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.