Get up! - Genesis 20-23

Then she went and sat down opposite him a good way off, about the distance of a bowshot, for she said, "Let me not look on the death of the child." And as she sat opposite him, she lifted up her voice and wept. And God heard the voice of the boy, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, "What troubles you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is. Up! Lift up the boy, and hold him fast with your hand, for I will make him into a great nation." Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. And she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink.  Genesis 21:16-19


I have often glossed over this story as depressing and tragic, but God in His love and mercy reveals Himself and His perfect plan.

Hagar was at the bottom; she was convinced her life could get no worse and this was the end. God speaks to Hagar and assures her of His presence - the Angel of God says, "Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is." God was there, present with them in the middle of the dessert. He wanted Hagar to see Him beyond her circumstances and get up! It's almost like God was saying, "Look!! Life isn't over! I have a plan, and you and your son are a part of it, so GET UP!"

When Hagar's eyes were opened, and she allowed herself to see God was bigger than her surroundings, she saw His deliverance. What an encouragement to be reminded that God is ever present in the little and big circumstances that we face. How many times do we get bogged down and discouraged in the ups and downs of everyday life? We must remember to look up!

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. - Jeremiah 29:11