The Generations of Ishmael (Genesis 25:12)

2022-08-22

Now these are the generations of Ishmael, Abraham’s son, whom Hagar the Egyptian, Sarah’s handmaid, bare unto Abraham: And these are the names of the sons of Ishmael, by their names, according to their generations: the firstborn of Ishmael, Nebajoth; and Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam, And Mishma, and Dumah, and Massa, Hadar, and Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah: These are the sons of Ishmael, and these are their names, by their towns, and by their castles; twelve princes according to their nations. (Genesis 25:12-16)

Ishmael had 12 sons who became princes living in castles, while his younger brother Isaac prayed 20 years for children. If Isaac was the son of promise, why did not things come more naturally for him?

Twenty years of praying show the power of God.

God can make the barren give birth. Sarah had a son at 90 years old. Rebekah had twins after 20 years of praying for children. Rachel had two sons when Jacob’s other wives seemed to freely bring forth. These were a demonstration that God has power to override the natural for His honor and glory.