Genesis 25:1-21 – Constant Prayer

Abraham marries again and has 6 sons by Keturah. He makes Isaac his heir, but he gives gifts to the rest of his children. He wisely sends his other children away, so they will not be a trouble to Isaac. Abraham has lived 175 years – though he has lived a long and good life, he must die at last. His death brings Isaac and Ishmael together to bury their father with Sarah. Ishmael goes on to have 12 sons that become heads of 12 nations. They live in the land between Egypt and Assyria, called Arabia. They live not as wanderers but in settlements and camps. Ishmael dies at the age of 137.

After a long time of being childless, Isaac and Rebekah receive children through prayer. Isaac is 40 when he marries and 60 when his sons are born. God has promised that Abraham’s line will continue through him, but often this must have seemed slow and uncertain to Isaac. But Isaac loves Rebekah and does not turn to other women for children. Instead, he prays. He prays for his wife. God’s promises should encourage us to pray for their fulfilment. He probably is praying for many years, reminding us that we, too, should pray constantly and not lose heart.