Doctrine: By faith we believe in God’s future promises in spite of our desires.

Point #1: The life of Issac

-It was Isaac, not Ishmael, that God would establish His covenant with. (Genesis 17:19, 21)

Point #2: The blessing from Issac

-This is how Isaac lived by faith, in a life of mediocracy and longevity. At least from the point where God had provided a ram to be sacrificed instead of him, to when in his old age he is losing his sight, he lived by faith. But it is important to remember that a life lived by faith doesn’t entail perfection. Isaac, along with his wife, had major shortcomings.

-Rebekah favored Jacob. He was a quiet man, dwelling in tents, and greatly loved by his mother.1 Perhaps he became favored because of what God told her when she asked why they were fighting in her womb while she was pregnant.
• God replies to her saying, “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you shall be divided; the one shall be stronger than the other, the older shall serve the younger.”

Point #3: The Faith of Issac

- So far, I believe Isaac most closely exemplifies the description of faith: the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

Conclusion:

• Eternal life in Christ, brothers and sisters, is our hope and faith. May we delight ourselves more in
the Lord, that He would change our desires to line up with his. So when we experience the
fulfilment of His promises, they bring us the most joy.

• May our trust in the Lord cause us to say, come what may in this life, it is well with my soul.
Would God’s desires differ from my own, it is well with my soul. Because God’s will is greater and brings Him perfect glory, it is well, it is well with my soul.