Author: Dave Dishman (Page 392 of 475)

Issac lied to Abimelech. Fearful of his host, the king of the Philistines, Issac told him that Rebekah was his sister, not his wife. Abimelech caught Issac in his lie, scolded him, and eventually drove Issac and his clan away (Genesis 26).

This incident mirrors Abraham’s lie about his wife, Sarah, to Pharaoh in Egypt (Genesis 12).

So I wonder, did Issac come up with this scheme on his own? More likely, he heard stories growing up in the family tents about how Abraham outwitted Pharaoh and grew rich. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Be careful the stories you tell your children.

In Mark 9:42-49, Jesus says a lot about hell. Jesus issues a series of warnings against causing others, and ourselves, to stumble. Stark choices, and consequences, rain down. As I read over and over, it appears easier to land in hell than I like to think.

To Jesus, hell is a real place, and he should know.

I gloss over this aspect of Jesus’s teaching, skimming past in my search for softer lessons. Not sure that’s the best practice.

Week two of reading the Bible cover to cover.

Isaac chose to live near Beer Lahai Roi – the well of the Living One who sees me (Genesis 24:26 & 25:11).

Why?

The land is described as desert (Genesis 16), not great for grazing flocks.

Issac moved there after the death of his mother, and before the arrival of his bride, Rebekah. Was he in mourning? Did he enjoy the company of his half-brother, Ishmael? Did Hagar’s story of the angel draw him there? Did God feel distant, out of touch?

Issac wanted to be seen. Like all of us. So, he pitched his tents next to Beer Lahai Roi – the well of the Living One who sees me.

Week two of reading the Bible cover to cover.