Don’t you just love the fact that we get to discover who God is by reading the Bible??? I believe God is intentional when He reveals an aspect of His character to emphasize the meaning of that attribute in the circumstances given.
Abraham needed to confront Abimelech about a well of water that was seized by his servants. Abimelech had no idea and seemed quick to accept terms and make a covenant with Abraham…Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba and called there on the name of the LORD, the Everlasting God (El Olam). For the full encounter, read Genesis 21.25-32.
First, some fun facts about his event. When Abraham first was called by God to go to where God promised, he did not always engage rulers in the land with such confidence. He often was timid and asked his wife to say she was his sister as a means to protect himself. Yet here, we see Abraham step up as an equal and negotiate with a king on the same level. Abimelech acknowledges Abraham’s success and power by identifying that God is with him.
Throughout scripture, the number seven is used to symbolize completeness. Abraham offers seven ewes which Abimelech receives making a pack. The place was called Beersheba which means “well of oath” or “well of seven”. This location continues to play a role in recommitment to God for Isaac. With this transaction and pact, we also have the first recorded purchase, acknowledging his rights by a king.
God as the Everlasting God, a timeless God challenges the scoop of my mind to comprehend. In some ways, at first glance, it was odd to me that such a powerfully reality of God is revealed over something like a well dispute. It wasn’t until further thought and investigation did I see the significance.
God’s covenant has already been established. He was continuing to see it through. This God who is always, in continuous existence, everlasting, unending future, is at work establishing the necessary details in this life so that His people would be blessed to be a blessing to the nations. How God lead and cared for the people, impacted every tribe they encountered.
El Olam, the everlasting God, is with you, despite whatever storm, unknown, unmet expectation, diminished dream or victory you are currently finding yourself in. I am thankful to reflect on who God is to me in this season of my life. That His timeless nature can bring me comfort as I so easily evaluate how things are goin based on my short impatient time lines.
May our hearts be strengthen as we sojourn with Him.
Just Walking 