Genesis 21:8-20

All choices have consequences. The consequences do not care about our intentions when we make our choice. Consequences do not care that our choice is approved by the society we live in. Choices often have unintended consequences. Some consequences are inconsequential, others are life changing, and a few can be life shattering.

Abraham’s choice to sleep with Sarah’s slave woman was made with the best intentions. It was a choice that was approved by the society he lived in. It was also a choice that was now showing the potential to have devastating consequences. Ishmael had grown up experiencing his mother’s disdain for Sarah. Now he was showing that disdain by mocking his younger stepbrother Isaac. Abrahams bad choice in the past was now going to require him to make a hard choice in the present.

According to historical records, society required Ishmael to be considered the heir to Abraham. Society forbade Abraham sending Ishmael away. Sarah was demanding that Ishmael be sent away, and Abraham had to choose. There is no easy answer, but the choice still has to be made. This time Abraham gets it right, he asks God what he should do.  God tells him to send Ishmael and his mother away. God also promises that he will take care of the boy, and that the boy and his mother will prosper.

It would be wonderful if forgiveness ended consequences. Life doesn’t work that way. Sometimes the consequences of our past actions force us to make a choice with only bad options. When this happens we must turn to God and ask him for guidance. He will help us to choose the best among all the bad options. As we follow his guidance the consequences of our choices will become increasingly rewarding.