Focus on the Promise

Sometimes when God promises you something and it doesn't normally happen right away, it's easy to get impatient, doubt Him, and give up on the request. In Genesis 22:17, Abraham did that. God promised him children as numerous as the stars. Tired of waiting, he took matters into his own hands and fathered Ishmael with his wife's maidservant, Hagar. That was just the beginning of his woes.

God loved Ishmael and had great plans for him, but Abraham had to let go of him in order to fulfil God's will. It must have been one of the most painful experiences in Abraham's life. Refuse to let the enemy send anything into your life that will undermine what you have been waiting and praying for. Focus on the promise! Be careful who you take advice from. Fathering Ishmael was a ''good idea'' Abraham's wife Sarah had counselled him on that action.

Nobody wants it for you more than you want it for yourself and, you don't want it for yourself more than God wants it for you; so be patient and wait on God’s timing. Again, just because you are willing to take responsibility for your actions doesn't mean there won't be consequences, long-lasting ones.

Be careful where you lie down; getting up again may not be as easy as you think. But when you've gone as far as you can with your "Ishmael" and you're ready to see God's promise fulfilled in your life, you must be willing to let it go just like Abraham. Focus on the promise. Your works can't get it for you better than what His grace has offered you! He that has promised is faithful. "But if we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently". (Romans 8:25NLT)