There are two ways to live your life, and they are represented by two ancient sons.

The Apostle Paul tells us that the story of Abraham’s family is more than just history; it is symbolic. It is an allegory (allēgoreō) ἀλληγορέω — "to speak figuratively."

For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman, the other by a freewoman. Galatians 4:22

First, there was Ishmael. He was born of Hagar, the bondwoman. This represents the flesh. The "flesh" here isn't necessarily about committing crimes or being immoral. The flesh represents human effort. It is what happens when we try to help God out because we think He’s moving too slowly. It is man trying to achieve God's results using man's strength.

Then, there was Isaac. He was born of Sarah, the freewoman. This represents the promise. Isaac was born when human effort was impossible. He came when the bodies of his parents were as good as dead. He was born not by striving, but by the power of God’s word.

Ishmael is what you can do. Isaac is what God can do.

One is born of anxiety and planning; the other is born of rest and reception. You get to choose which son defines your walk today.

Stop straining to produce an Ishmael and trust God to deliver your Isaac.