2 repeated themes:
(1) Ishmael, the son (boy) of the slave woman, Hagar v.9, 10, 12
(2) Abraham was displeased by Sarah's demand for Ishmael was also his son v.11, 12.
11 Sarah’s demand displeased Abraham greatly because Ishmael was his son.
Abraham knew that Sarah was right that Isaac was the promised descendants, but he could not abandon Ishmael for another reason.
God's plan:
Ishmael would be taken care by God for he is Abraham's son, even though, his birth was out of human plan. God is merciful and He helped out Abraham's difficult situation.
Abraham needed to do what Sarah demanded, because her demand went along with what God had promised. Therefore, God asked Abraham to not being upset.
Reflection:
1. I have to identify what is the plan of God. If someone gives me advice that I do not like and make me upset, I just need to know if that advice goes along with what God want me to do.
2. (Under circumstances that #1 pass) I may have reason to be upset because the proposed plan violates my reasoning. However, I have to remember that God is merciful. Maybe God will provide an alternative to satisfy both the proposed plan and my reasoning.
Bottom line: No need to be upset.
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