Abram is a bit impatient. As an 85 year-old man, the time for raising a family, much less siring a nation seems to be past. A plan is developed by Sarai, his wife, to bring a descendant into the family. Sarai's maidservant, Hagar, is offered as a surrogate mother. Abram decides to side-step God's timing and impregnates Hagar. Sarai's contempt for Hagar is so great that she banishes her servant to the elements. God, even in this dark circumstance, proves Himself faithful by protecting Hagar and the young child Ishmael. Ishmael was never intended to be the promised heir of Abram; but God provides for his safety and future nonetheless. How great is His mercy!
God reiterates His promise to Abram and puts the stipulation to Abram that his responsibility is to bear in his body a mark of his dedication to God - circumcision. We read of the great circumcision that takes place in Abram's household. Also in this passage we learn that Abram's name is changed to Abraham. He goes from being a prince to being the father of many nations - and yet has no legitimate offspring. Sarai's name is changed to Sarah.
Throughout these chapters God is at work brining His plan to fulfillment.
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