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Isaac and the Day of Small Things

Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)

Isaac, though less prominent than Abraham and Jacob, exemplifies steadfast faith in the small things, enduring for 180 years with unwavering commitment. In Genesis 26, during a severe famine, Isaac considered moving to Egypt but was halted by God's intervention, reaffirming the eternal promises given to Abraham. God assured Isaac not to fear, especially as he relocated to Beersheba, a place significant to his father Abraham, where he reclaimed familial roots and faced diplomatic tensions with the Philistines. Despite envy and conflict over resources, Isaac mirrored his father's obedience, restoring Abraham's wells and maintaining the covenant with Abimelech, demonstrating his dedication to God's path. His life, marked by quiet perseverance even in blindness during his later years, underscores the importance of faithfulness in seemingly minor duties, a testament to God's value of such steadfastness.

Isaac

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Isaac, though having the least written about him among the foundational personalities of God's purpose, was a great man in His eyes. His long life of 180 years, surpassing even Abraham's 175, stands as an indication of God's pleasure with him, reversing a trend of declining lifespans. Unlike his father Abraham, who spanned vast regions and impacted many, or his son Jacob and grandson Joseph, who overshadowed him in the narrative of Genesis, Isaac's life was more contained, marked by quiet strength. He did not found nations, lead armies, or write scriptures; he was a wealthy shepherd, living a life of simplicity compared to the larger-than-life figures around him. Isaac's outstanding characteristic was his fear of God, a deep respect and trustful submission that defined his actions. This fear, noted by Jacob in Genesis 31:42 and 53 as "the Fear of Isaac," was synonymous with God in his family's recognition, reflecting Isaac's unwavering faith. He believed God was present in every situation, guiding events for good, and thus he consistently sought to do what was right. This fear was not terror but a profound reverence that led him to submit to God's will, even when it went against natural instincts, as seen in Genesis 26:1-5, when God instructed him to stay in the land during a famine rather than flee to Egypt. Isaac obeyed, staying in Gerar despite the hardship, trusting God's promise to bless him. His submission and fear of God produced remarkable outcomes, evident in his peaceful demeanor and wise decisions. In Genesis 26:12-25, despite envy and conflict from the Philistines who stopped up his wells, Isaac did not resist or retaliate, though he had the power to do so. Instead, he moved on, dug new wells, and gave credit to God for making room for him, showing meekness and trust in divine provision. God appeared to him, affirming His presence and blessing, a reward for Isaac's faithfulness. Even when deceived by Rebecca and Jacob, Isaac quickly accepted the situation, seeing God's hand in it and maintaining peace within himself. Isaac's fear of God also manifested in personal moments, such as when he meditated in the field in Genesis 24:62-67, likely praying about his future wife, Rebecca. His submission to God's choice resulted in a perfect match, and he loved her alone, remaining faithful throughout his life. The epitome of his submission was his willingness to be a sacrifice, as a young man in his prime, laying down his life in obedience to God's command through Abraham, reflecting a trust so deep that it mirrored the ultimate submission of Christ. Isaac lived within himself, not striving to be another Abraham, but being the best he could be with a humble assessment of his worth. His greatness, though muted compared to his father's, was his own, earned through a life of peace and contentment, knowing God was with him. This fear of God brought him a laughter of peace, a disposition of happiness and trust that carried him through life's challenges, making him a great man in a unique and profound way.

Abraham (Part Eleven)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

If we hold fast to principles, though it may seem initially uncomfortable and fearful, we will eventually receive respect and even admiration.