Read
Genesis 23:1-20
Perhaps
one of the saddest times in the life of Abraham is when he buries his beloved
wife and soul mate, Sarah. The loss of a loved one, in particular a spouse, is
indeed a tumultuous time in one’s life. Grief is at its greatest in times like
this; many times it brings out the worst in us, while for others they may seem
to be at their best. In truth the loss of a loved one exacts its toll on
everyone, in ways unimaginable.
A
number of lessons may be gleaned in this life altering drama.
·
Though Abraham was a man of means and was
therefore able to provide for Sarah’s final expenses, many of us are not able
to provide with such lavishness. Therefore it behooves each of us to number our days (Ps.90:12) and not take
life for granted. In the days of our youth we are prone to believe we are
invincible and immortal—nothing bad will happen to me…it always happens to the
other person. However, nothing could be farther from the truth. Not one of us
knows the day or hour of our departure from this life into the next. Some live
long lives while others may live for a brief moment.
·
It is wise to be prepared for the
inevitable…to set aside for the final expenses of our loved ones and ourselves
as well to lessen the burden of those left behind. Abraham lived a nomadic life
and therefore had need to purchase a burial plot for Sarah, himself and his
family. You and I will eventually have to do the same; as children of the most
High God we also are pilgrims in search of a heavenly home; therefore we will
need to purchase a plot whereby we might rest our weary bones.
·
It is indeed a wonderful and notable thing
that Sarah lived for 130 years, with the same faithful husband. Faithful to her
and most of all faithful to their God.
·
Sarah is also mentioned in 1Pet.3:8 as being
submissive and obedient to Abraham calling
him lord. Though the word lord by
definition means ruler, authority, master, yet she understood her position
not as a slave, or a lower class, as some would imply, but she saw her position
as subordinate and in conformity with Gen.3:16 And thy desire shall be to thy husband and he shall rule over thee. Sarah
saw herself as God saw her and ordained her position not as inferior but
subordinate in protocol.
·
This also testifies to Abraham’s life not only
as faithful to his God, but as a man of God taking spiritual leadership as his
God ordained position (Gen.3:16b) though he stumbled yet he did not fail his
God nor his family, leading them in Godly paths and nurturing them with God’s
word through his Godly lifestyle. The children of Heth gave testimony to
Abraham’s godly lifestyle calling him a
mighty prince (6a); giving testimony that he was blessed of the Lord God
(24:35), not only in terms of wealth but also his favor with God. Nations
around knew of his faithfulness and favor with the Lord God.
Hebron
is rich with history.
·
Hebron; heb. friend…friend of God. Abraham was called the friend of God.
·
Location: 30km (19mi.) south of Jerusalem
·
Called the city of Abraham by Jews and
Muslims.
·
David anointed King over Judah in Hebron.
·
Served as David’s capital city, after he
captured it, for 7½ years. He ruled from Jerusalem 33 years.
·
Hebron was the dwelling place of Abraham and
Sarah as well as their place of burial.
·
Faith
Building Practice and Review
1.
Can you resonate with Abraham’s grief?
2.
Searching other Scriptures, what can you
glean from Sarah’s life?
3.
Describe how the virtuous woman in Proverbs
31:10-31 might apply to Sarah?
4.
Does Abraham’s life emulate Gen.3:16?
5.
Why was Abraham called a friend of God?
Knowing
God
A brief [not complete, add
to the list] synopsis of the persona of God:
·
Love
·
Gracious
·
Merciful
·
Righteous
·
Longsuffering
·
Gentle
·
Faithful
·
Compassionate
·
Forgiving
·
Friend
The ultimate goal of Bible study is to
know God and not to merely memorize Bible trivia. As you study, identify the
attributes of God. For instance: make a note when you read of God extending His
forgiveness or compassion, and remember how He has done the same for you
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