LOOK TO THE WORD
“He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers.” Genesis 16:12 NIV
The Bible holds the answers to every question we may have, but often, we lack the curiosity and wisdom to search for them.
Proverbs 25:2 reminds us that it is “the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings.” Charles Spurgeon beautifully put it: “The diligence of the heart in seeking to know the divine mind does the heart more good than the knowledge itself.” In Genesis 16, God prophesied over Ishmael, describing him as a “wild donkey of a man,” a picture of constant struggle and opposition.
This prophecy spoke not only about Ishmael’s life but also about the future of his descendants, many of whom reside in the Arabian Peninsula today. When we look at current events in that region, we shouldn’t be surprised by the ongoing conflict. God already knew what was coming, and while this prophecy is sobering, it also calls us to pray with wisdom. We are not to despair, but to pray with understanding, knowing that God’s mercy is still available to all, regardless of their history or present circumstances.
As we intercede for those in conflict, let us remember that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy. His sovereignty and grace extend beyond the struggles we see. Let our prayers reflect that hope and trust in His ongoing work. Praise Him!
Prayer: Father, I thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. I trust in the truth You spoke long before our present realities came to be. Through Your Spirit, I am equipped to pray with understanding, knowing that You have revealed all things to us for the glory of Your name. Amen!
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• 1 John 2:20
• Leviticus 6:12
