Arms Reaching

Today’s reading is from Genesis 25-26 covering the Death of Abraham, Ishmael’s children, Esau sells his birthright to Jacob and Isaac tells Abimelech that Rebekah is his sister (like Grandfather like Grandson) You can find today’s reading at:

https://www.biblegateway.com/reading-plans/beginning/2023/01/08?version=NIV

Things to Ponder!

Why did Esau give up his birth right for a bowl of stew?

Isaac tells Abimelech that Rebekah is his sister. What is the deal?

Things to Ponder from Day 7

Why did God ask Abraham to sacrifice Isaac? – This is a very interesting question and one that is not answered directly in the bible, but most scholars believe Abraham did not expect Isaac to die, He told his servant that “He and the boy would return“, and He told Isaac that “God would provide the lamb“.

Paul tells us in Hebrews 11:17-19 “¹⁷ By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was in the act of offering up his only son, ¹⁸ of whom it was said, “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.” ¹⁹ He considered that God was able even to raise him from the dead, from which, figuratively speaking, he did receive him back.”

Why did Abraham insist on purchasing a burial site for Sarah? – I have read several commentaries regarding this question and most say that this was a common way of negotiation in that day, while others say that purchasing the burial site ensured that Sarah remains would remain undisturbed. In either case, Abraham was determined to provide a burial place for his wife.

What is the significance of the story of Isaac and Rebekah’s marriage? – The story of Abraham’s search for a bride for Isaac shows that the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah was based on faith. Abraham’s servant prayed intently for a very specific sign to identify the proper bride for Isaac. God answered his prayers and Rebekah was identified. Rebekah then had to decide if she would leave her family to marry a man she had never met. It was a leap of faith that Rebekah after hearing the servant describe his quest that she agreed to become Isaac’s bride.

Thanks for participating!