25-0101wc - Detailed Summary

The speaker discusses the biblical narrative where Sarah, initially barren, gives her Egyptian handmaiden Hagar to Abraham to bear children. Hagar conceives, which leads to tension as Sarah blames Abraham for the situation. After Abraham tells Sarah to handle Hagar as she sees fit, Sarah treats Hagar harshly, prompting Hagar to flee. An angel of the Lord finds Hagar by a spring in the wilderness, instructs her to return to Sarah, and prophesies that her child will grow to be a "wild man." Hagar recognizes this encounter as one with God, naming the well "The God who sees me," acknowledging God’s awareness of her plight.

The speaker explains how scriptures from Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Psalms illustrate God’s all-seeing nature. God sees not only human actions but also the situations individuals are in, emphasizing His omnipresence and omniscience.

The narrative continues with Sarah giving birth to Isaac, fulfilling God’s promise. Tensions rise again when Ishmael, Hagar’s son, is seen mocking Isaac at his weaning feast. Sarah demands Hagar and Ishmael be sent away, which Abraham reluctantly does after God assures him that He will make Ishmael into a nation. In the wilderness, when their water runs out, Hagar weeps, fearing Ishmael’s death. However, God hears Ishmael’s cries, and an angel directs Hagar to a well, saving them. Ishmael grows up to become an archer, living in the wilderness and marrying an Egyptian woman.

The speaker reflects on the dynamics between Sarah, Hagar, Ishmael, and Isaac, suggesting that their conflicts were partly due to their different stations and actions. Despite these human failings, God’s care for Hagar and Ishmael underscores His provision and foresight, even when it seems they might have brought their hardships upon themselves.

The speaker shares a personal story about job loss and gain, illustrating how God provides in times of need. This leads into a broader discussion on prayer, trust, and God’s provision as described in the New Testament, particularly in Matthew, where Jesus teaches not to worry about basic needs but to seek God’s kingdom first. The speaker emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and faith in God’s timing and wisdom, concluding with a hopeful message for the new year, trusting in God’s foresight and care.

The speaker emphasizes trusting in "the God who sees" during times of sickness, such as colds and earaches, encouraging the congregation to pray for healing with expectation. The session concludes with an invitation to prayer, acknowledging the new year and expressing gratitude for the messages derived from God’s Word.

In the prayer, the speaker thanks God for the new year and prays for trust in God’s providence during hard times. Specific prayers are made for those absent due to illness, including a plea for healing for those bedridden or in hospice care, with special mention of Bob Jordan for peace for him and his family. Further prayers are offered for Carl and Wally, asking for blessings and healing, recognizing God’s work through doctors and medicine. The prayer concludes by asking for guidance in doing what is right and for the promise of eternal life with God, closing in the name of Christ.