Daily Digest: Capstone Capsule

“The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous” – Genesis 26:13

Isaac represents as a scriptural MODEL of IMPACT by RESILIENCE: “The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous; for he had possessions of flocks and possessions of herd and a great number of servants. So the Philistines envied him” (Gen.26:13-14). Isaac’s story from youth to adulthood portrays exemplary faith, obedience, and resilience. While he was a child, Isaac’s willingness and submission to be sacrificed, even though he was the promised son, showcases his obedience to his father, Abraham, even in the face of what seems like a terrible command from God (Gen.22:9).

The story of the binding of Isaac also highlights his personal faith and trust in God’s promise, as his father assured him: “…My son, God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering…” (Gen.22:8). Even Isaac’s birth had the signature of resilience of faith: His mother was ninety and Abraham was a hundred years old. His birth was the fulfilment of a promise God had made to Abraham 20 years earlier, showing that if we wait for God in resilient faith, He will always keep His promises to us!

Isaac in Gerar exemplified Impact by Resilience. In obedience to divine instruction, Isaac dwelt in Gerar, and enjoyed God's blessings and protection, amidst challenges and conflicts. After God restated the covenant promises made to Abraham, and assured of his continued blessing and security in the land, Isaac's wealth and prosperity grew, leading to envy from his neighbours, the Philistines, to the extent that they begged him: “Go away from us, for you are much mightier than we” (v.16b).

Returning to Beersheba after living among the Philistines, Isaac dug wells along the way. Because water sources were scarce, and water is an absolute necessity for life, Philistine force were unfriendly to Isaac, and contested his wells. They wanted to discourage Isaac, but he continued to dig wells all along the way. He showed resilient faith by refusing to fight or retaliate, instead seeking peaceful resolutions. From digging a well in Esek, meaning contention and strife, to digging another in Sitnah, meaning opposition, he and his men pressed on to Rehoboth, meaning “room,” “open space,” or “broad places” (vv.20-22).

Although Isaac’s faith and obedience were tested through disputes over wells and water rights, his resilience, perseverance, and nonviolent disposition led to peace and prosperity. His story teaches us to “Keep Digging”! Water symbolizes the Word of God (Psa.119:9; Eph.5:26). Water is essential to physical life, and the Word of God is vital for spiritual life – birth and growth! The world, the flesh, and the devil cannot stop us from digging spiritual wells!