Day 26 - Genesis 26

 •  2 min. read  •  grade level: 7
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Isaac lived the longest of these four generations (Abraham to the sons of Jacob). See his age in Genesis 35:28. We don’t read of any outstanding acts in his life. He was the ordinary son of a famous father, Abraham, and the ordinary father of a famous son, Jacob.
V.1-6 God often had to tell Abraham and Isaac to stay in the land which God had sent them. But they had a pull toward Egypt (Gen. 12:10; 26:1-2). Remember that Egypt in scripture is a picture of this world in which we live. It attracts us if we let it.
V.7-16 Like his father, Isaac tells a lie about his life, and almost brings a great sin (v. 10) upon them all. Abimelech is an upright man, and has the courage to speak sharply to Isaac about the wrong he had done.
V.17-25 Isaac reopens the wells which had been filled in. He calls them by their old names. In our days many things are getting new names. It is always good for the believer to go back to the beginning to the apostles’ days, apostles’ doctrine and the apostles’ fellowship (Acts 2:42).
V.23-24 So soon as Isaac returns to Beersheba, notice what happened “the same night.” It is only when we get back into the proper path, do we enjoy communion with God.
V.25 Let’s not think that we can live as we choose and still be guided by God. Read these verses carefully. Only on restoration do we see the Lord drawing close to Isaac. Four lovely symbols here: (1) the altar; (2) prayer; (3) the tent; (4) the well. The first is a picture of worship or communion with God (John 4:23). The second is an expression of dependence on God (Psa. 62:1-2). The third is a picture of testimony or a witness to those around that we are just passing through (John 17:16). And the fourth, a source of refreshment; like the Holy Spirit in us (John 7:38-39). Down in Gerar, Isaac had neither joy, peace nor influence.