Robert C Green II .com

Today the reading went from Genesis 17 – Genesis 28. One of the most interesting things going on here is Ishmael. Ishmael, for the most part, is a problem child. He is the daughter of Abraham’s servant Hagar and is highly related to the Islamic faith as a prophet. In fact, this  is how Muslim’s trace their heritage back through Abraham. Ishmael also relieved blessings from God that, as it seems, have come to pass. These prophecies concern Ishmael’s descendants and say that they:

1. Would be a great nation
2. Would always be hostile toward their brothers
3. Would live east of their brothers

I find this very interesting because Ishmael is the link between Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. The prophecies also seem much like the current day Middle East. This is so interesting! This also led to me reading the Wikipedia article “Jesus in Islam” which I suggest you give a read to as well.

Some other interesting points from today’s reading are:

• Genesis 18.14 – “Is anything to hard for the LORD?” I believe it is very wise that none of us ever forget this. Nothing is to hard for God and His Christ
• Genesis 18.16-33 – Intercession works! This is such an awesome model for how we should pray and intercede before God. I think that there are truly two lessons that should be drawn from this: Always ask God for specific things and always remind God of His promises (mainly for you benefit).
• Genesis 19.30-36 – I find it interesting that Lot was the Father of his grandchildren. Incest? Maybe. But more interesting because Christ’s line goes through the Moabites who are a direct descendant of this line
• Genesis 22.14 – “The Lord Will Provide” or Jehovah-Jireh. This is just one name of God. The names of God are so important as they reveal his character. Look up the names of God and study them. God will provide! Jehovah-Jireh!

Think about that!