“And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee!”
In this verse, Abraham is speaking to God in response to the covenant that God had just made with him. Prior to this chapter, God had promised Abraham that he would become the father of many nations and that his descendants would be exceedingly numerous. However, Abraham and his wife Sarah were both advanced in age and had not yet had any children together.
In Genesis 17, God appears to Abraham and reiterates His promise, assuring Abraham that he will indeed have a son with Sarah. God changes Abram’s name to Abraham, which means “father of a multitude,” symbolizing the fulfillment of this promise. God also establishes the covenant of circumcision as a sign of this covenant between Himself and Abraham’s descendants.
Abraham’s response in verse 18 reveals a mix of gratitude and concern. He acknowledges God’s promise, but he also expresses a desire for Ishmael, his son from his wife’s maidservant Hagar, to have a special place before God. Abraham’s request for Ishmael to “live before” God can be understood as a plea for God’s favor and blessings upon his firstborn son.
This interaction reflects Abraham’s love and concern for Ishmael, as well as his desire to see his son blessed by God. However, God’s response in the following verses clarifies His plan and His faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham. God assures Abraham that his wife Sarah will bear him a son, and it is through that promised son that the covenant will be established.
Genesis 17:18 teaches us several important lessons. First, it reminds us of Abraham’s deep faith and relationship with God. Abraham’s immediate response to God’s promises is to intercede on behalf of his son, demonstrating his desire for God’s blessings upon Ishmael. Second, it shows that God is aware of our concerns and desires, even before we express them. God responds to Abraham’s request and addresses his concerns in His subsequent dialogue. Lastly, it emphasizes God’s faithfulness to His promises. Despite Abraham’s initial concern, God reassures him of the specific plan He has for Sarah and the promised son, Isaac.
Overall, Genesis 17:18 captures a moment of interaction and communication between Abraham and God, showcasing their relationship and Abraham’s love for his son. It serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and His perfect plans, even when our desires and concerns may differ from His immediate response.
