What's Bothering You?

God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is (Genesis 21:17).

Needy miners and settlers in British Columbia, engaged in stripping abandoned Fort Alcan of lumber, electrical appliances, and plumbing, made an amazing discovery. While dismantling the jail they found that though mighty locks were attached to the heavy doors and two inch bars covered the windows, the walls of the prison were only patented wallboard made of clay and paper, painted to resemble steel. A good heave against any of the walls would have burst them out.

Nobody ever escaped from the jail at Fort Alcan by breaking down a wall because all thought it impossible. Many are prisoners of fear and doubt when a push of faith would bring freedom.

Hagar, Abraham and Sarah's banished maid, wandered in the desert and despaired for the life of her child. When her meager supply of water was exhausted, she placed the young boy under a shrub and went some distance away to weep so that she wouldn't witness his death. God's question, "What aileth thee, Hagar?" let this troubled mother know that He was aware of her problem. As soon as her eyes were opened she saw that He had already provided the solution -- life-giving water. Now His promise assured the future of her son.

What aileth thee? What is bothering you? Why are you troubled?

Put away your fears. Your problem has not taken God by surprise. There is a design in your present difficulties.

Open your eyes and you will see that God has a solution.

Rest your future in His hands!