We see Abraham acting here with
discernment and wisdom. In fact Abraham does exactly what the Israelites would
be commanded to do by God through Moses. God would instruct them not to take
for themselves wives from amongst the Canaanities. Abraham had lived long
enough amongst the Canaanities to know they were a wicked and idolatrous
people, he had witnessed God’s wrath against them in the destruction of Sodom
and Gomorrah. He wisely discerned that it would be not only be wrong for his
son to marry a Canaanite women, it would also invite idolatry back into
his family, which would ultimately lead to the judgement and wrath of God. Thus
Abraham gives very specific instructions to his servant to return to the land
from which he came and seek a wife for his son there. Abraham demonstrates
further wisdom and faith when his servant asks if the woman he finds is
unwilling to leave, should he then take Isaac to her. Abraham had understood
clearly God’s promise to him, this was the land in which he was to live and remain,
and this promise was not just for Abraham but also for Isaac and for Isaac’s
offspring. This land, this promise of blessing and prosperity was as much for
Isaac as it was for Abraham. If Isaac where to return to the land from which
Abraham came, it would be to forsake and turn away from the promises and
covenant of God.
Abraham functions as an example to us
in his decision making and trust in the sovereignty of God. We need to exercise
the same wisdom and discernment when it comes to the decisions we make. We need
to be aware of the world in which we live, of their ways and the great danger
that comes with flirting with the world, with inviting them into our lives and
homes. We are called to reach out to the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ,
we are called to live in the world, but we are also called to not live like the
world, we are to be distinct from the world. We are not to engage in the ways
and practices of the world, but are to demonstrate holiness and obedience
towards God. As we do this, as we seek to make important decisions with these
things in mind, seeking to honour God, we need to trust in God and in God’s
sovereignty, believing in faith that God will lead us in the right way.
Abraham’s obedience, trust and faith in God is rewarded, for it is with
remarkable ease that his servant finds a wife for Isaac and he returns
rejoicing, rejoicing for the sake of his master and rejoicing in the God of his
master. God will lead us faithfully as we seek to follow him and live in
obedience to His ways, honouring Him with our lives and in the decisions we
make.
Our
good and great God we thank You that You give Your wisdom and guidance to us so
freely. We thank You that You have given us Your Spirit of wisdom and Your Word
that gives us wisdom and discernment, that teaches us how we are to live in the
midst of the world. We pray that You will enable us to not only trust in You
and Your sovereign purposes, but to also seek to make wise decisions that
honour You. Amen
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