Seventh Day Baptist
Christian Education Council
PO BOX 1678
Janesville, WI 53547
—Genesis 21:8-13; 25:17-18
by: Cheri Appel.
Ishmael’s name means “God will hear.” Today’s Bible passage confirms that we must not take matters into our own hands. God did hear the prayers of Abraham asking for an heir. God did hear the cries of Hagar each time she and Ishmael had to survive in the desert. God does hear our prayers and requests. Ishmael’s story demonstrates God’s care and providence. God fulfilled all of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and even Ishmael. Ishmael’s 12 sons became the nomadic tribes of what was eventually the large population of Arabia. Through Isaac, God’s promise of a Savoir blesses ALL people. God hears and answers all our prayers and keeps all His promises.