THE CHALLENGES NOTWITHSTANDING Genesis 24
Abraham’s servant had prayed, “the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee, that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: let the same be she that thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed kindness unto my master.” Genesis 24:14.
Rebecca aligned with God’s plan by accepting to follow the servant despite not being previously aware it will be so soon to leave her parents’ house. Her brother and father confirmed it was God’s will “The thing proceedeth from the Lord: we cannot speak unto thee bad or good.” Genesis 24:50 and she agreed to go without questioning, Genesis 24:58.
Isaac had also yielded to the command given by his father Abraham. The servant was not to take a wife from amongst the Canaanites with whom they dwelt but from Abraham’s kindred. By faith the servant went to Padanaram and by faith Rebecca followed. When they arrived Canaan, Isaac took Rebecca as wife, but there was a challenge that would later unfold.
Rebecca was barren and would not bear children until the 20th year of their marriage despite her prompt obedience, Genesis 25:20,26. Rather than the couple complaining or doubting if it was God’s will to be together, Isaac entreated the Lord on her behalf. Nonetheless, it took twenty years before they could have their own children, Esau and Jacob.
Sometimes, we experience challenges, even when we have done the will of God. This could be in our personal lives or ministry. At such times, we may be tempted to doubt if we heard right or if we really followed God’s plan for us because of the magnitude of the challenges. John the Baptist experienced same when he was imprisoned by Herod, Matthew 11:3.
That we are in God’s will won’t rule out difficulties in life, they would still come. The challenges should stiffen our resolve to serve the Lord better. Paul and Silas had responded to Paul’s vision about the Macedonian call, but they ended up being imprisoned. Acts 16:9-12,20-24. Eventually, the keeper of the prison and his house were saved, Acts 16:34.
Be encouraged despite your challenges. As long as you’re in God’s will, they won’t endure forever. The Lord is not unaware of your struggles, and although weeping may endure for a night, joy comes in the morning- Psalm 30:5b. Keep hope alive, do not allow the enemy of your soul to sink you in despondency. It is well with the righteous, the challenges notwithstanding.
© Pause and Ponder
You can also reach us via E-mail: pauseandponder365@gmail.com
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3SX92zr
Youtube: https://bit.ly/4bzEVFH
WhatsApp Channel: https://bit.ly/3SGpfYn