Scripture to Read: Genesis 26:1-6
As we read Genesis 26, we continue to see God's covenant to Abraham fulfilled. In Genesis 17:21, the LORD had told Abraham, "But I will establish my covenant with Isaac." In Genesis 26, we read that the LORD spoke to Isaac the same way He had spoken to Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3. Our LORD promised to be with Isaac, bless him and his offspring, and give him the land. He told Isaac, in Genesis 26:3-4, He would multiply his offspring "as the stars of heaven," his offspring would inherit the land, and through his offspring, "all the nations of the earth shall be blessed." Included in this promise, the LORD told Isaac, "I will establish the oath that I swore to Abraham your father." God's promise is based on God's faithfulness, but the LORD still pointed out Abraham's response to His promise in Genesis 26:5, "because Abraham obeyed my voice and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws." So we see that Abraham responded to God in obedience. The question for Isaac was, would he do the same. Genesis 26:2 highlights for us a word from the LORD to Isaac: "And the LORD appeared to him and said, 'Do not go down to Egypt; dwell in the land of which I shall tell you." Hearing from the LORD, how would Isaac respond? In Genesis 26:6, we see Isaac responded in obedience. He didn't go down to Egypt but settled in Gerar as the LORD had commanded him. We need to ask ourselves each day, "As God speaks to me through His Word, will I obey?"
Challenge & Application
1. What does this passage teach us about how God continues His faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham?
2. What are areas of your life the LORD has called and convicted you to obey His Word?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!