Genesis 26

Scripture:  Genesis 26:17-34

Observation:  Isaac goes to the Valley of Gerar, and his servants dig a well.  The herdsmen in the area insist that the water is theirs, so he digs up another well.  They argue over that one too, and he left it and dug up a third well.  This one they didn't argue over, so he settled there.  The Lord appears to Isaac reminding him of the promise He'd made to Abraham.  Isaac builds an altar to worship the Lord and settles in Beersheba.  King Abimelech journeys to visit Isaac, which surprises him since Abimelech had sent him away.  But Abimelech has realized that Isaac is blessed by the Lord and wants to make a covenant with him to ensure their safety.  Isaac prepares a feast, makes an oath with Abimelech and they leave in peace.  Esau marries two Hittite women, to the grief of Isaac and Abraham.

Application:  Wherever Isaac went, God blesses him.  Isaac remained faithful to the Lord as his father Abraham had, and God watched over and protected him to the point that those around him could see God's hand in Isaac's life.  When we are faithful to the Lord, He also blesses us.  Our life becomes a testimony to God's grace and brings Him glory.

Prayer:  Father, my greatest desire is to live a life that glorifies You.  Help me to see in what ways I can be a blessing to others and in this way bring honor and glory to Your Holy Name.  May my life be a reflection of Your goodness and grace.  In Jesus' name, Amen.