In the birth and young life of Isaac, who is a type of Christ, we have a picture of the joy / laughter which is a big part of our life in Christ! Isaac’s name means laughter and we are to Rejoice in the Lord Always – Philippians 4:4
I. We are to rejoice in, depend upon and trust in the PROMISES of GOD
1. Abraham and Sarah were not perfect in doing this –
A. Great promises were given to Abraham / Sarah – Genesis 12:2, 7; 13:16; 15:4
B. Yet, they thought they must commit sin in order to fulfill these – Genesis 16:1-4
2. Ishmael and the problems connected with him were due to their not waiting upon the LORD – Genesis 21:9-13
3. God is perfect in fulfilling anyway, earlier sin, even in chapter 20 did not hinder the birth of Isaac – Genesis 21:1-3
II. We are to rejoice in, depend upon and trust in the POWER of GOD
1. They were well beyond child bearing age – Genesis 21:5-7
2. This was supernatural strength Sarah received to give birth – Hebrews 11:11
3. Not only does she give birth but she nurses the child - :7
4. Hebrews tells us of Abraham, as far as having children, he was as good as dead – Hebrews 11:12
III. We are to rejoice in and be obedient in carrying out the Precepts of GOD
1. Abraham circumcises Isaac, according God’s command – Genesis 21:4
2. In the next chapter Abraham is obedient when asked to offer up Isaac – Genesis 22
3. We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper next Sunday
IV. We are to be obedient in and be kind even under Persecution / trial -
1. It may not seem like much but a 17 year old picking on a 3 year old here is a form of persecution – Genesis 21:8-9
2. This is the reason Hagar and Ishmael are kicked out – Genesis 21:10
3. This disturbs Abraham – Genesis 21:11
A. He is probably disturbed Ishmael could not be more mature
B. He is very disturbed nothing short of separation can bring resolution to this problem
C. Ultimately he must be disturbed knowing his own part in the cause of this problem
This is the kind of difficulty Christ tells us we should expect – Matthew 10:34-38
V. Yet Ishmael is cared for too by God – Genesis 21:14-21
VI. God’s Blessing upon Abraham’s Life was noticed and even feared by his neighbor – Genesis 21:22-33
Shine, make them wonder what you got
make them wish that they were not
on the outside looking bored
Shine, let it shine before all men
let them see good works and then
let them glorify the Lord!
Find your joy in Christ – there is more joy in the square inch of being in Christ, than in the SQUARE MILE of life in the outward works of rebellion!
