The last time Abraham encountered Abimelek he had been full of fear, cowardly gave up his wife, and made weak excuses (20:1-18). God had intervened at that time. Abimelek feared God. He kept his eye on Abraham, and saw that God was with him in everything. So he sought out a treaty of mutual respect. The world is watching how we live. Do they see that God is with us in everything?

Abraham is a different man. His fear has been replaced with courage. He not only agrees to the treaty, but even confronts Abimelek about a well he dug (“complained” is better translated “reprove” or “rebuke”). With confidence and faith in God who makes and keeps promises, Abraham became bold and courageous.

The introduction of the term “Philistines” here reminds us that we live in hostile territory. Abraham doesn’t fight his neighbors but makes friends and allies. His planting a tamarisk tree and calling out to the Eternal God shows where his strength comes from. He does not retreat but stays a long time. Beersheba becomes a prominent place in God’s history from this time forward.
Application: Father, you have been so faithful. Open my eyes to know you as the Eternal God, that your perfect love may drive out all my fear. Help me be a peacemaker in a world of fear and conflict.
One Word: Our God is the Eternal God