TEXT - Genesis 26
In Genesis 26, we see Isaac face adversity; famine, fear of losing his life, and quarreling over sources of water become the soil in which Isaac's faith grows. Like his father Abraham before him, Isaac gives in to sinful self-interest as he faces adversity. And like his father Abraham before him, Isaac also receives grace and blessing from the LORD who works through weak sinners to bring about his plan of redemption.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
What do you notice that is familiar about this chapter from earlier in the book of Genesis?
Why do you think this account of blessing (12-16) is set side by side with the account of Isaac’s deception (7-11)? What does this suggest about the nature of God’s blessing?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
Isaac should’ve trusted the promise of God instead of walking in the fear of man. How can you relate to Isaac in this struggle? How do the promises of God Christ fuel our walk with Christ?
Read verse 3, verse 24, and verse 28 again. How is the reality of God’s presence fulfilled in the Gospel? How does this bring joy and comfort to the believer? (see also Psalm 16:11 & Hebrews 4:14-16)
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
This chapter records both faith and failure. What do you do after you fail?
Abimelech, a pagan king, noticed that the LORD had been with Isaac (v.28). As you consider your own life, do you live for Christ in such a way that there is something attractive to the non-Christians around you?