Christian greetings,

READ GENESIS 26:26–31

Today’s devotion shares an illustration, Biblical insight and a challenge for us today.

“He’s got to be kidding!” muttered Carl aloud, then quickly looked up from his bus seat to see if anyone had noticed. He continued the conversation in his mind as he checked his phone. After treating me like that, this guy actually sent me a friend request on Facebook?

Carl is not alone. When others mistreat, misuse, or misjudge us, our first reaction is one of mistrust. It is good to be cautious of those who have hurt us before. A little initial skepticism is natural, as was the case with Isaac when some previously not-so-friendly neighbors came asking to be friends again.

Isaac asked them, “Why have you come to me, since you were hostile to me and sent me away?” (Genesis 26:27).

Isaac and these men were able to formally reestablish their relationship. As difficult as this might have been for Isaac, it was more important for him to be a part of his community than to go it alone. Good relationships with your coworkers, neighbors, or family members may require you to give up your natural mistrust.

Challenge for Today: Work toward rebuilding a relationship by extending grace to a difficult person. With our current isolation mandates this could be done through a phone call, text, email, or even letter.

Anchored in Hope,

Pastor Phil & Cheryl Johnson