(story told in Genesis 17:15-35:29)
Isaac’s story begins with a miracle. God promised Abraham and Sarah a son even though they were very old. When Isaac was born, they named him “laughter,” because God had brought joy to their hearts after years of waiting. Isaac was the child through whom God’s covenant with Abraham would continue—a sign that God keeps His promises no matter how impossible they seem.
As a young man, Isaac faced a great test of faith. God told Abraham to offer him as a sacrifice. Abraham obeyed, trusting that God would provide another way. At the last moment, God stopped him and supplied a ram instead. This event showed Isaac that God requires trust, not human sacrifice, and that obedience brings blessing.
Isaac later married Rebekah, a woman chosen by God’s guidance. Their marriage began with love and prayer, but they faced struggles too. For many years they could not have children, until God answered their prayers with twin sons, Esau and Jacob. The two brothers were very different and often in conflict, showing how family blessings can come with challenges.
Isaac lived a peaceful life compared to his father and sons. He stayed in the land God promised, re-dug the wells his father had made, and trusted God to provide during times of famine. Even when others quarreled with him, Isaac chose peace over fighting, and God blessed him with abundance.
When Isaac grew old, he passed on the covenant blessing to Jacob, continuing God’s plan. His story reminds us that faith, patience, and peace bring lasting rewards, and that God’s promises endure from one generation to the next.