The Wells of Isaac Genesis 26:12-25 I. Introduction. A. Isaac has started for Egypt. B. Stopped in an area populated by Philistines(under Lord's direction). C. Like his father, deceived Abimelech--but no ill consequences. D. But--had other difficulties with the heathen--this is an account of how he handled his situation (Genesis 26:12-25). II. Body. A. Isaac was a prosperous Hebrew(verses 12-14). 1. Why? Jehovah blessed him. 2. More affluent than those living about him. 3. His increase was "remarkable." 4. An "ideal" earthly situation. 5. Yet--his piety & zeal were with him. 6. Did not use his power & wealth against others. B. Isaac becomes the object of envy(verses 14-15). 1. Not unusual. 2. Often surprised at whom people envy: the object not even aware! 3. Perhaps thought their own failures were causing his success. 4. Filled Abraham's well--prevented satisfying an essential need. 5. Envy led to sale of grandson: Acts 7:9. 6. The danger pointed out to Corinthians: I Corin- thians 3:3. C. Isaac accommodates his neighbors(verses 16-21). 1. Took humility & courage. 2. Even Abimelech involved: perhaps pressured. 3. Redug old wells: sometimes needed. 4. An effective solution sometimes. 5. A man of peace! 6. Realized: Romans 12:19. 7. Note: Isaac had learned early the meaning of sacrifice. D. Peace arrives(verses 22-23). 1. Persistence and determination availed! 2. Suffered the inconvenience, the disruption, the envy, etc.--now has peace! 3. How peace is robbed today: strife, contention, battles, etc. 4. Learn from Isaac: a. "Better to walk away from trouble than into it." b. "Easier to stay out of difficulties than to get out." c. "Loss of property better than loss of soul." E. The Lord's blessings(verses 24-25). 1. Source of his success. 2. Dug a well at Beersheba. 3. Isaac had learned not to depend upon men. 4. Lord blessed Abraham: now Isaac. 5. Isaac's altar indicates he was thankful for God's help. a. How often forgotten! b. Also, indicates his character. III. Conclusion. A. "Failure" with early wells did not lead Isaac to "give up." B. Success comes through persistent trials: Acts 14:22. C. Isaac served even through inconveniences.-jy