The Pulpit Commentary on Genesis 21:17

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

Hagar, a weary outcast.

"What aileth thee, Hagar?" Hagar is sent away from Abraham's tents. In the wilderness wandering she is lost. In despair she sinks down and weeps. An angel's voice is heard inquiring, "What aileth thee, Hagar?"

I. HAGAR MAY BE TAKEN AS REPRESENTING THE SOULS STILL CHRISTLESS, They are—

1. Weary.

2. Thirsty.

3. Apparently man-forsaken and God-forsaken.

4. Their dearest comforts slipping from them, as Hagar's child, by death.

5. Death expecting.

II. HAGAR'S ACT INDICATES HOW SUCH SOULS SHOULD ACT IN TROUBLE.

1. Realize it.

2. Seek deliverance from above.

God nearer to us than we imagine. He feels for us, hears us, helps us. He gives sustenance, cheer, guidance.—H.

HOMILIES BY J.F. MONTGOMERY

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