By Autumn Nims, CEO
Genesis 26 offers an inspiring account of digging wells…
Isaac dug a well in the land once settled by his father, Abraham. This well yielded fresh water, highly coveted by the local people, leading to disagreements about who had rights to it. Isaac named the well “Esek,” meaning “arguments.” Instead of clinging to conflict, he chose to move on and dig another well.
The next well Isaac dug was
met with hostility, prompting him to name it Sitnah, symbolizing the opposition he encountered. Once again, rather than engaging in strife, he wisely chose to abandon it.
Digging a well was no easy task in that era. It signified a claim on the land meant to sustain life and support a community. Isaac intended to provide for his family and community, yet he met with discord at every turn.
Ultimately, he discovered a place to dig yet another well. This time, Isaac did not encounter opposition, and peace was found. He named this well “Rehoboth,” meaning “open space.” With joy, he declared, “At last, the Lord has created enough space for us to prosper in the land.”
Sometimes, the most powerful choice is to abandon arguments and hostility. There’s no room in our lives to dwell in anger or to fight for something that may not align with where the Lord intends to bless us. Isaac recognized that remaining in hostile territory would only cost him. He had the wisdom to leave behind the conflict, knowing that God was prepared to bless him in a spacious place—Rehoboth, a land where he could thrive and expand.
Are you at the well of hostility or arguments? Leave it behind!
Rehoboth is just around the corner.