REHOBOTH: YOU SHALL BE FRUITFUL IN THE LAND

And he moved from there and dug another well, and they did not quarrel over it. So he called its name Rehoboth, because he said, “For now the LORD has made room for us, and we shall be FRUITFUL in the land – Genesis 26:22

God gave Isaac an unusual instruction during famine (Gen.26:2). His father Abraham had gone to Egypt to get help, but God directed Isaac to stay in Gerar, the land of the Philistines. God’s instruction was clear, and for a time, Isaac prospered and enjoyed abundance. However, the Philistines became uncomfortable with him. Success often attracts envy, jealousy and opposition. The adversaries forced Isaac out!

Genesis 26:18-23 records how, to make a new beginning, Isaac re-dug the wells of his father that the Philistines of Gerar had stopped. When Isaac’s servants dug in the valley of Gerar, the herdsmen of Gerar came and strove for the well of springing water, claiming that the water was theirs. Isaac named that well Esek, meaning “strife.” Then his servant dug another well, for which was even more strife, combined with hostility. Isaac named that well Sitnah, that is, hatred or hostility. He moved from this hostile territory and dug another well the water of which the Philistines did not strive. Isaac called it Rehoboth meaning that the Lord had made room for them and that their fruitfulness in the land was assured.

In summary: the Philistines took over Isaac’s wells twice, but at the third well, there were no oppositions. God had provided him with space and peace for his prosperity – Rehoboth! In tough times, we must learn to listen to God's direction, even if it seems unconventional. Also, it is not unusual to experience antagonism and challenges while walking in the will of God. So, when times are tough and people are nasty, just keep digging! Never give in to discouragement. Failure is not final; it may be a temporary detour on the pathway to Fruitfulness!

When you are faced with strife or hostility, you must not give up, for the Lord will make room for you, so that you can be fruitful. The other side is: Would you make room for the Lord? When you do, you are destined for Rehoboth!!