Genesis 21:19

New King James Version

Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. And she went and filled the skin with water, and gave the lad a drink.

For Encouragement

It was a pleasant day in New Orleans after a week of windy and cold days, so I went to walk in the Public Park. The outer loop of the trail was almost empty, so I took it. After a long walk, the trail abruptly cut off. I tried the winding pavement to reach my entry point, but could not see any familiar landmarks. Right then, I knew I was lost.

I sat in a picnic area to write on my phone. The winds picked up, and the temperature dropped. When I stood up to leave, I felt unsure of the direction. But then, I looked up and saw the entry gate just 200 feet ahead. Relief flooded over me. I felt grateful and thanked the Lord for showing me the way out of the park.

Some may call it a coincidence and downplay it, but it is in these little things that we experience God intimately and grow in faith. He is the Almighty God who opens our eyes to see and to know where to pass and not to pass in tight and difficult situations. When the road gets darker, and the howling winds fill the ears of His wandering child, Jehovah is the One who shines a glimmer of light on our path and opens our eyes to see our way forward. His name is Yahweh (Exodus 3:14). Let us give Him the praise He deserves, shall we?

Today’s scripture is about Hagar and her son, Ismael, in the Desert of Beersheba after Abraham sent them away from his household (Genesis 21:18-21). Hagar faced desperation when their food ran out, and Ismael was dying (14). Overwhelmed, Hagar left Ismael under a bush as she couldn’t bear to watch him die. But God heard Ismael’s cry and had compassion. He showed Hagar a nearby well, where she found water to save Ismael (19). God’s goodness is clear, isn’t it?

Mt. Moriah gives us another picture of God, opening the eyes of His people to see His provision. When He stopped Abraham from sacrificing his only son, Isaac, in obedience to Him, the Lord opened his eyes to see a ram caught by its horn in the thicket Abraham used for the sacrifice (22:3-18). It foreshadowed God’s sacrifice of Jesus on Calvary for our redemption. God makes provision for the needy and opens their eyes to see His blessings. Hallelujah!

So, are you in the straits, needing to know what tomorrow holds for you—where the next meal will come from or a job to keep your family? Trust the God who sees you and hears your cries. He will open your eyes to His provision under His Sovereign grace and timing. Amen!

Pray with Me

Father, I trust your providence and constant care, even when I cannot see tomorrow’s provision or protection. Strengthen my faith, Lord, and open my eyes to see Jesus, your All-sufficient provision for my life. In His bounteous and magnificent name, I pray, amen.