THE STORY OF SCRIPTURE

Personal and Family Devotional Guide

Week #6 – Isaac

 

Day 1:

Read Gen. 24-25.

Because Abraham and his chief servant depended exclusively on the Lord, God “hand-picked” a wife for Isaac.  What characteristics and qualities does God want you to look for in a future husband or wife?  Ask God to prepare a future mate for you and connect you to that person when the time is right.

 

Day 2:

Read Gen. 26-27.

Abraham died with dignity and respect.  When you die, how will people remember you?  What lasting legacy do you want to leave behind?

 

Day 3:

Read Gen. 24-25.

Rebekah was barren, until Isaac prayed to the Lord on her behalf.  How deeply do you believe in the power of prayer?  How often do you ask God to do something miraculous?  Ask God today to do something outrageous (i.e. – something only he can do)!

 

Day 4:

Read Gen. 26-27.

Unfortunately, there was favoritism in Isaac’s family.  Isaac loved Esau more than Jacob, and Rebekah loved Jacob more than Esau.  Is there favoritism in your family and do you show favoritism in your relationships?  If so, how is this favoritism expressed?  Ask God to help you be impartial with your family, friends, and co-workers this week.

 

Day 5:

Read Gen. 24-25.

Things get passed from one generation to another.  These “generational cycles” are hard to break.  Abraham favored Isaac over Ishmael, so Isaac favored Esau over Jacob.  Abraham lied about the identity of his wife, and so Isaac did the same.  What cycles need to be broken in your family and which ones need to be continued?  What positive things is God trying to pass on to you through your parents?  What negative things is Satan trying to perpetuate?

 

Day 6:

Read Gen. 26-27.

Jealousy, envy, anger, bitterness, and resentment existed between Jacob and Esau.  In many ways, this hostility was fueled by their selfishness and their parents’ favoritism.  How does your selfishness affect your relationship with your parents and brothers/sisters?  Is there jealousy, envy, anger, bitterness, and resentment that exist between you and your brother/sister?  If so, ask God to reveal the “root” of these feelings and to empower you to love and forgive.