God's Glory Church

“God heard the boy’s voice.” — Genesis 21:17

Sue’s family was falling apart before her eyes. Her husband suddenly left the house, and she, irritated and confused, stayed with the children. Sue asked her husband to go with her to a family counselor, but he refused, saying that he was fine and that she was the problem. She realized that she could lose him forever and fell into despair. Will she be able to take care of herself and the children?

Hagar, the servant of Abraham and Sarah, faced a similar situation. Unable to wait for God to give her the promised son (Gen. 12, 15), Sarah gave Hagar as a wife to her husband, and she gave birth to Ishmael (Gen. 16:1-4, 15). And when God fulfilled His promise, and Isaac was born to Sarah, the tension in the family increased, and Abraham sent Hagar and Ishmael away (Gen. 21:8-21). Can you imagine her despair? Soon the mother and child ran out of water. Not knowing what to do, and not wanting to see her son die, Hagar left Ishmael under the bush, and she herself went aside. Both cried. “God heard the voice of the young man” (v. 17). The Lord took care of Hagar and Ishmael and was with them.

Times of despair, when we feel completely alone, prompt us to turn to God. What a comfort to know that in such moments, as throughout life, He hears us, cares for us and remains with us!

How did God care for you when you felt alone? How have you responded to His care?

I thank You, God, that I am never alone. Help me in times of despair.

By Ann Sitas