AVOID PANIC MEASURES
Genesis 16:1-3,
Ishmael was Abraham and Sarah’s attempt to produce an heir through their own strength and initiative. God had spoken but the fulfillment of His word had not yet come. So they threw away God’s word and embraced a human solution to their problem. Ishmael is the product of a panic measure by Abraham and Sarah when they thought God could no longer keep His word.
Panic measures characteristically make a man view issues from a short sighted perspective. He sees the immediate gain but does not see the far-reaching implications of his decision. Ishmael was not the son of promise but God blessed him all the same (because he was the seed of Abraham) and he became a great nation. God eventually made good His promise when Isaac was born but the mistake made by father Abraham and his wife Sarah remains with us today.
Always ask God for direction at critical moments of your life. No matter the pressure you are going through, do not bow to pressure. Avoid panic measures, follow God’s lead. Avoid short cuts. Any short cut contrary to God’s word or principles will cut short destinies. Psalm 37:5 advises us “commit your ways to the Lord, trust in Him and He shall bring it to pass”
MEDITATION: Isaiah 30:21 “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying “this is the way; walk in it”
