God Sees

Week of January 3, 2025

“Then she called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, You-Are-the-God-Who-Sees; for she said, ‘Have I also here seen Him who sees me?’” – (Genesis 16:13, NKJV)

Hagar’s story is one of rejection and redemption. In Genesis 16, she flees into the wilderness, overwhelmed by the treatment she received from Sarai. She was alone and unsure of what the future held. Hagar encountered an Angel of the Lord who gave her assurance. In that moment, she named God, “El Roi” which means the God who sees.

She realized that even in her lowest and most forgotten state, she was not invisible to God. He knew her name, her situation, and her pain. This story teaches us that God sees our struggles. Do you feel overwhelmed? Be reminded that God sees your struggles. He understands every burden. This story also teaches us that God meets us where we are. Hagar wasn’t in a temple when she encountered God, she was in the wilderness. God’s presence is not limited to holy places. God will meet you where you are. One last truth this story reveals – God has a plan for you. God promised Hagar that her son, Ishmael, would grow into a great nation. Maybe you feel forgotten, but be assured that God sees you even if you are in the wilderness and He has a good plan for your life. Reflection on these thoughts can give you hope.

God Bless, Pastor Rick