GENESIS 16:1–13
In an online group where we support and encourage one another, a friend commented, “I see you.” His remarks gave me a sense of calm and wellbeing after I had been concerned and worried. He loved me and “saw” me, with all of my hopes, concerns, challenges, and dreams.
My friend’s encouragement evoked thoughts of Hagar, a slave in Abram’s household. Sarai, desperate for an heir, advised her husband to conceive through Hagar. However, when Hagar became pregnant, she treated Sarai contemptfully, leading to her mistreatment in return. Hagar fled to the desert.
Hagar, in pain and confusion, was blessed by the Lord with the promise of being the mother of many descendants. She called Him “El Roi,” which means “the God who sees me.”
Hagar was loved and seen. We may feel ignored or rejected by others, but our heavenly Father sees our secret feelings and fears and speaks words that bring us life.
🙏Father, as you saw Hagar in distress, please send help and encouragement to those hurting, fleeing oppression, and afraid, in Jesus’ name.
📷: praetorianphoto
