The stories told in Scripture never grow old as each time they are revisited, one finds a much needed truth.
In returning to the story of Hagar as found in Genesis 16, there was precious encouragement to be found.
Hagar has run away from her abusive mistress. She is pregnant and has no where to run or hide really. She is a servant with probably little value placed on her, for she is one of many servants.
“Now the angel of the Lord found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, by the spring on the way to Shur.” (Genesis 16:7, NASB)
We all can find ourselves in the “wilderness” at times. It’s the place where we are alone, we go to escape from our circumstances, and think no one can see or find us. The enemy whispers to us that we are invisible, unseen by those who should care about us.
But the truth is, we are always seen by God.
He may be invisible to us, but we are never invisible to Him.
Once Hagar had this encounter with the angel of the Lord, she knew she was seen:
“Then she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, “You are a God who sees” …” (Genesis 16:13, NASB)
In the wilderness, on the way to another destination, Hagar’s journey was interrupted, she was seen, and the course of her life was changed.
“You are a God who sees.”
Today I pray for each of us to believe this to be true of us. No matter your situation, God sees you and He is ever present with you. Always.
You may think you are invisible, but He knows your every thought, the disappointment causing deep pain, and the weight you carry.
Bring it all to Him. He will be your hope, your help, your healer, your all.
For He is the God who listens.
“Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16, NASB)
We may have never seen a geyser nor walked these paths, yet every day we navigate our way through challenges. In this post, Our Steps Matter, Natalie Ogbourne encouraged me to be faithful to the small moments of faith which require the larger leaps of faith. Be sure to read her post (HERE) which is beautiful in both words and photos!
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
Photo by Levan Badzgaradze on Unsplash
Today I am joining …
Such a blessed truth – He always sees us, always cares, always loves.
Always. May I not forget this the next time I feel unseen!
Joanne, this is one of my favorite stories and verses in the Bible. So often when walking the hard places of life it can feel so lonely and as if even God has abandoned us. But this precious promise reminds us He always sees, hears and cares for us! Thank you!
It is a promise, and one we need to remember when invisibility comes around and speaks its lies. I am discovering just how critical it is to our spiritual health that we refute the lies.
The stories really are timeless. It was so great to ponder this one along with you this morning!
Timeless, powerful, and needed.
Indeed my friend. He always sees us and knows our thoughts. Truly enjoyed ma’am. Thank you!
I needed this today as I found myself last night asking God over and over to show me a sign! It does feel lonely! But He his faithful.
Grateful you found encouragement in this story, Lynn. We so need to remind one another of the truths and promises we’ve been given.
It’s so wonderful to know His eye is always upon us. He sees it all. He knows it all. And that is why He alone can judge – He knows the whole story!
“He will prevail” – I liked the challenges of raising little children much better than the challenges of shepherding adult children. It is indeed a walk of faith – one step at a time, just doing and not giving up. Sweet encouragement for my Wednesday, Joanne! Thank you for encouraging to keep my eyes on Him!
Maryleigh, I so agree! I would much rather toddler challenges than adult children challenges. I remember once in talking with an older woman (Alice) in church and sharing something about my children, who were teens at that point. She said something I never have forgotten … “Little children, little problems. Big children, bigger problems.” Her point was our God stretches us a little at a time to meet the challenges. We grow along with our children 🙂 How wise and remembered is Alice!
We are seen. What a lifeline that is! Thanks for mentioning my post and for your that encouraged me!
Natalie, your post spoke to my heart truly and I was hoping to be able to share it from when I first read your words 🙂
This is such a comfort. God is so kind.
Thank you Joanne.
Blessings,
Jennifer
Thank you for sharing your mid-week with coffee scripture which reminds we are never alone; even when we feel all alone. Your posts are a blessing.
Grateful we share and can be an encouragement to one another!
Hi Joanne.
Hagar’s story is one of my favorites. Not because of its tragedy, but because of the beautiful provision and rescue God provided for both Hagar and Ishmael. He truly is the God Who Sees.
Peace and grace,
Tammy
Amen!
Joanne, I love the story of Hagar. Not because of the pain and discouragement she endured, but because her story so vividly describes how God sees each of us. Just knowing he’s the God who sees us, brings so much comfort and peace.
So true, Karen. Not a single part of her pain was unseen by our God.
I loved Natalie’s post too, Joanne. And it’s so comforting to remember that God sees us. This post reminds me of a song called “He Knows My Name” that we used to sing in church when we were waiting to adopt Lilly … brought tears to my eyes every time! â¤ï¸