NOTES for Gen 21:1-34

The birth of Isaac, as the fulfillment of the promise, happens at the moment when there is no hope, but only faith. For the sake of this child, the slave woman's son has to be sent away from the house, and there are no guarantees that he will survive, but there is only faith. When death in the wilderness from thirst comes closer and closer, there is no certainty of rescue, but there is faith. Every episode of this chapter brings us back to what must become the foundation of stability, confidence in tomorrow, and the guarantee of life and health in our own lives. Not the fact that we are full of strength and young, and not the fact that we have plenty of food and water with us. The only foundation for us is the Word of God, who is faithful to His promises and will do according to His word. All that remains for us is to believe.