Genesis 21:22-34 – A Friend of Kings
We see in this passage that Abraham’s friendship is valued and sought after by kings. God’s favour to Abraham is obvious to all around him. Because of this favour, Abimelech wants to be in a treaty of friendship with Abraham. Abimelech knows that it is good to be friends to those who are friends with God.
Abraham and Abimelech make a treaty that their families will be constant friends. This treaty must not be violated by either side, so they call on God to witness their sincerity and avenge any treachery.
After agreeing to this treaty, Abraham now settles up the matter of a well that he dug that Abimelech’s servants have taken from him. Wells of water are very valuable in Canaan, and the unjust loss of one would be sufficient reason for Abraham to walk away from the treaty he has just made. But he wants to sort the matter out, so he calmly talks to Abimelech about it. This is the first Abimelech has heard about it, and we assume that he probably quickly set the matter to rights with his servants. Besides a very generous gift of livestock, Abraham now gives Abimelech seven sheep to be a reminder of who owns the well. Abraham settles there in peace and openly and regularly worships God.
Questions
- Why does Abimelech want to be Abraham’s friend?
- What had Abimelech’s servants taken from Abraham?
Prayer Points
- Pray for Christians suffering in other countries.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters