1. Abraham's distress (8-13)

Ishmael was the fruit of Abraham's and Sarah's unbelief and impatience. His presence in Abraham's household was a threat to baby Isaac. At Isaac's weaning party, Sarah asked Abraham to get rid of the slave woman and her son. Abraham was distressed, because he loved his son. While Sarah's words came from her human feelings, God also wanted to protect Isaac, for he was the covenant bearer. God promised to take care of Ishmael--but Isaac was the child of promise, the covenant bearer through whom all nations would be blessed. Abraham obeyed God with the obedience that comes from faith. He did not put off the hard job.

2. Hagar meets the God who hears and sees (14-21)

Hagar despaired. Then she heard God's voice of promise and found that God was with her and her son. He was with her because of Abraham--and because she accepted God's love and comfort. God hears and sees.

Application: Lord, help me to obey you by faith and not compromise with my human feelings.
One Word: Cast out your Ishmael