Topical Encyclopedia Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for his role in the Abrahamic covenant and his exemplification of meekness. His life, as recorded in the Book of Genesis, provides a profound illustration of humility, submission, and trust in God's promises.Birth and Early Life Isaac's birth was a miraculous event, as his parents were advanced in age. Genesis 21:1-3 states, "Now the LORD attended to Sarah as He had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what He had promised. So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised. And Abraham gave the name Isaac to the son Sarah bore to him." Isaac's very existence was a testament to God's faithfulness and power, setting the stage for a life marked by divine purpose. The Sacrifice on Mount Moriah One of the most significant episodes in Isaac's life is the near-sacrifice on Mount Moriah, as recounted in Genesis 22. Abraham, following God's command, took Isaac to the mountain to offer him as a burnt offering. Isaac's meekness is evident in his submission to his father's will, even as he carried the wood for the sacrifice. Genesis 22:7-8 records Isaac's inquiry and Abraham's response: "Isaac said to his father Abraham, 'My father!' 'Here I am, my son,' he replied. 'The fire and the wood are here,' said Isaac, 'but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?' Abraham answered, 'God Himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.' And the two walked on together." Isaac's trust in both his earthly father and his Heavenly Father exemplifies a profound meekness and faith. Marriage to Rebekah Isaac's marriage to Rebekah further illustrates his meek character. In Genesis 24, Abraham's servant is sent to find a wife for Isaac. The servant's prayerful search and God's providential guidance result in Rebekah's selection. Isaac's acceptance of Rebekah as his wife, without personal involvement in the selection process, demonstrates his trust in God's provision and his willingness to submit to divine guidance. Genesis 24:67 states, "And Isaac brought her into the tent of his mother Sarah and took Rebekah as his wife. Isaac loved her and was comforted after his mother’s death." Conflict with the Philistines Isaac's meekness is further highlighted in his interactions with the Philistines over water rights. In Genesis 26, Isaac reopens the wells dug by his father Abraham, which the Philistines had stopped up. When disputes arise over the wells, Isaac chooses to move on rather than engage in conflict. Genesis 26:22 notes, "He moved on from there and dug another well, and no one quarreled over it. He named it Rehoboth, saying, 'Now the LORD has given us room, and we will flourish in the land.'" Isaac's decision to avoid strife and trust in God's provision reflects his meek and peaceable nature. Blessing of Jacob and Esau In his later years, Isaac's blessing of his sons Jacob and Esau reveals both his human frailty and his ultimate submission to God's sovereign plan. Although Isaac intended to bless Esau, Rebekah and Jacob's deception led to Jacob receiving the blessing. Despite the circumstances, Isaac ultimately recognized God's will in the matter. Hebrews 11:20 affirms Isaac's faith: "By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come." Isaac's life, marked by moments of profound trust and submission, serves as a biblical model of meekness. His willingness to yield to God's will, even in challenging situations, underscores the strength found in humility and faith. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 26:20-22And the herdsmen of Gerar did strive with Isaac's herdsmen, saying, The water is ours: and he called the name of the well Esek; because they strove with him. Nave's Topical Index Library The Life of Isaac Watts, DD The First Apostle of Peace at any Price "Thou Art Now the Blessed of the Lord. " Psalm CXXX. (CXXXI. ). Psalm 45 Part 1 the Glory of Christ, and Power of his Gospel. Psalm 45 the Glory of Christ, the Success of the Gospel, and the ... The Example of Christ. Charity and Uncharitableness. Rom. 14:17,19; 1 Cor. 10:32 On the Great Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria. Sunday Before Lent Resources What does “blessed are the meek” mean? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the fruit of righteousness in Philippians 1:11? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about humility? | GotQuestions.org Meekness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Meekness: A Characteristic of Wisdom Meekness: A Fruit of the Spirit Meekness: Christ Set an Example of Meekness: General Scriptures Concerning Meekness: Ministers should Follow After Meekness: Ministers should Instruct Opposers With Meekness: Ministers should Urge, on Their People Meekness: Necessary to a Christian Walk Meekness: Precious in the Sight of God Meekness: Saints should Answer for Their Hope With Meekness: Saints should Exhibit, in Conduct Meekness: Saints should Put On Meekness: Saints should Receive the Word of God With Meekness: Saints should Restore the Erring With Meekness: Saints should Show to all Men Meekness: The Gospel to be Preached to Those Who Possess Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Beautified With Salvation Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Exalted Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Guided and Taught Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Preserved Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With are Richly Provided For Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Increase Their Joy Meekness: Those Who are Gifted With: Shall Inherit the Earth Related Terms Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) Longsuffering (17 Occurrences) Tender-heartedness (2 Occurrences) Acknowledgment (6 Occurrences) Superabundance (4 Occurrences) |
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