Genesis 20:8-10

2007.Oct.29 00:58

Frustration with Another

Read Genesis 20:8-10 | Full Chapter

So Abimelech rose early in the morning, called all his servants, and told all these things in their hearing; and the men were very much afraid. And Abimelech called Abraham and said to him, “What have you done to us? How have I offended you, that you have brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? You have done deeds to me that ought not to be done.” Then Abimelech said to Abraham, “What did you have in view, that you have done this thing?”
(Genesis 20:8-10, NKJV)

Emotions.

Are a funny thing. I know. We all know. I don’t know of any person who doesn’t think that emotions can be deceptive and fickle, can lead us into deep trouble if allowed. I do think I’ve met a few people who don’t also realize how wonderful emotions can be, when we experience them but don’t give them control. But I’m getting off track. Even though most of us understand the dangers of emotions, it’s so (somehow surprisingly) simple to let them start dictating in any of a thousand situations.

King Abimelech is understandably emotional this morning. Yahweh showed up last night and told him a woman he had enslaved (more or less) and probably intended to have sex with–regardless of her opinions–was married. To a prophet, to boot. And Yahweh wasn’t happy about this. Well, maybe “wasn’t happy” is inaccurate. The “exact” words were, "You will die. The woman you took is married" (Genesis 20:3, CEV) (where “exact” means something like: orally passed down for a while, then written down, then copied several times, then translated, and then I picked a translation that I happen to think makes my point well). Hopefully his emotions include guilt. But they also include some anger with Abraham for deceiving him.

Abimelech’s handling of this situation seems to be rather wise, though. Or, at least, diplomatic. He first consults others, confessing at least his sin of taking a married woman. Again, whether he has realized that there may be other issues here is not addressed. “Through insolence”, notes Proverbs, "comes nothing but strife, \ But wisdom is with those who receive counsel" (Proverbs 13:10, NASB) . So, I think talking it over was a good move. Better than going out tracking down Abraham to blame and attack him.

Next, the king goes to Abraham. Basically, he asks for an explanation. His language does indicate his frustration with Abraham’s deception, but he sticks to getting an answer. Now, I suppose he doesn’t need an explanation. Really, he ought to have preceded these first two steps with releasing Sarah. That’s one of the places emotions can get in the way. We ought to obey first, deal with the emotions later. I suppose that comes mostly from meditation of God’s words (so we know his commands by heart) and learning to control my thoughts.

Anyway, back to our fun conversation between the king and the traveler. Abimelech directly addresses the one who has offended him and offers Abraham a chance for explanation. Granted his other choice is to be struck down by God if he acts in his emotions and attacks Abraham. All in all, this is one of those situations that could have been a lot worse. But Abimelech doesn’t let his frustration or anger turn to rage. And yet, still, he is delaying obedience. Sarah is not yet released. So far, two points for effort, minus ten for execution.