This is a story in which no one is operating from pure motives. Isaac is feeding his flesh; Esau is carnally minded; Rebekah and Jacob are in the midst of deceit. Yet, in it all, God brings the results to His own end. Each individual in this story pays a price for his or her lack of spiritual direction. We need to make sure of our motives and follow the Lord in all things.<br />
<h4>Numbered List</h4>
<h4>Numbered List</h4>
As a person, Isaac was the type of man that hated to deal with conflict. This chapter shows him dealing a lot with what he liked the least—conflict. He has to be warned against going down into Egypt in order to avoid the troubles of famine. He then tells the same lie his father did in order to protect himself—except with Isaac, it was a complete lie. He makes a fortune, but has to deal with the envy of those who are jealous of him. Finally, he digs the wells of Abraham and has to battle over them. But…he prospers in the end. Watch this story and see how Isaac learns to deal with conflict in his life and how God blesses him in the end.<br />
<h4>Numbered List</h4>
<h4>Numbered List</h4>
Practically speaking, this chapter is a wonderful illustration in how to fulfill God’s will in our lives. Abraham knows that Isaac needs a wife. However, he is determined that he have the right wife. He will not compromise by sending Isaac away from the land of promise (Genesis 24:6), but he has confidence that God will go before his servant and prepare the way (Genesis 24:7).
This section of the Bible gives a great lesson on hospitality. But, more than that, it deals with fellowship with God. Abraham received the Lord into his home and the Lord felt enough confidence in Abraham to reveal to him what He was getting ready to do.<br />
<h4>Numbered List</h4>
<h4>Numbered List</h4>
Abel and Cain give the original contrast between good and evil. Abel obeyed God and was accepted of Him. Cain came up with a better idea and displeased God. But instead of getting things right, Cain took matters into his own hands and murdered his own brother. This world is still divided into those who submit to God’s plan and those who are determined to do things their own way. This lesson teaches obedience and the importance of doing things God’s way.<br />
<h4>Numbered List</h4>
<h4>Numbered List</h4>
