Then the angel of the Lord told her, “Go back to your mistress and submit to her.”
Genesis 16:9 NIV
This powerful encounter highlights the importance of divine guidance in our lives. Even when Hagar wasn’t seeking God, He sought her out, offering her much-needed direction and assurance. This moment serves as a reminder that divine guidance is always available to lead us back to the right path, even when we stray.
Hagar’s story emphasises the importance of seeking divine guidance in times of difficulty. If Hagar had turned to God earlier, she might have approached her circumstances with humility rather than pride. Instead of despising Sarai after learning she was pregnant, she could have relied on God’s wisdom to navigate her new reality. When she faced mistreatment, she might have chosen patience and prayer over fleeing in frustration.
God’s intervention in Hagar’s life was not just about her but was tied to His covenant with Abram. Hagar’s child, Ishmael, was a part of Abraham’s descendant, and through divine guidance, God ensured His promises would unfold. The angel’s command for Hagar to return and submit to her mistress was not meant to diminish her dignity but to align her life with God’s greater purpose.
This encounter shows the privilege of receiving correction and direction from God. He offers divine guidance as an act of love to help us grow and align with His perfect plan. Hagar used this opportunity to learn humility and embrace the blessings of trusting God’s plan. Likewise, we should value every moment when God corrects and guides us, trusting that it works for our ultimate good.
God’s promises to Hagar were far-reaching. The angel assured her, “I will increase your descendants so much that they will be too numerous to count. You are now pregnant, and you will give birth to a son. You shall name him Ishmael, for the Lord has heard of your misery.” (v10-11). Through His divine guidance, God not only directed Hagar but also ensured a promising future for her and her son. His intentionality and faithfulness remind us that He cares deeply about every detail of our lives.
As the story concludes, we see God fulfilling His promises. Hagar bore Abram a son, and Abram named him Ishmael, just as the Lord had instructed (Genesis 16:15). This highlights that God’s guidance is always accompanied by His unwavering faithfulness.
The angel of the Lord guided Hagar, teaching us to value divine guidance in challenging situations. Her story shows that God’s direction leads to growth, restoration, and alignment with His greater purpose. When we feel lost, overwhelmed, or uncertain, we can trust God to see us, hear us, and guide us toward His perfect plan.
Let us embrace every opportunity to follow His instructions, knowing that His plans for us are always intentional and good.
