And the Wells Dried Up
(Lessons from Isaac in Genesis 26)
In Genesis 26, we read about Isaac and King Abimelech of the Philistines. It’s interesting to note that this isn’t the first time we see an encounter like this in Scripture. A few chapters earlier, Abraham, Isaac’s father, had a similar encounter with the same or another Abimelech. In both situations, they claimed that their wives were their sisters, out of fear that the men of the city would kill them in order to take their wives (Genesis 20:2; Genesis 26:7).
This may point to a deeper pattern, perhaps even a generational curse, but that’s not the focus of today’s reflection. Today, I want to talk about blessings.
This Is Not a Prosperity Gospel Message
Let’s be clear: this is not a “name it and claim it” post. But it does concern me when Christians believe poverty is somehow a more holy or righteous state. That thinking is not biblical.
When we look at the people of God in Scripture, those who walked closely with Him, we see time and again that they were blessed with abundance. Abraham was wealthy (Genesis 13:2), Isaac was wealthy (Genesis 26:13), and even King Saul, when first introduced, was described as coming from a wealthy family (1 Samuel 9:1), and these are just a few examples.
Isaac Prospered... and Kept on Prospering
Genesis 26:13 says: “The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous.”
There’s no specific amount mentioned – just “very.” Isaac was rich-rich. So much so that Abimelech eventually said to him: “Go away from us, for you are much mightier than we.” (Genesis 26:16, NKJV)
Let that sink in. Even the king recognized the strength that came from Isaac’s blessing.
How will we make a difference in this world if we are not walking in the blessings of God? If we remain stuck in lack and poverty, how will the world see us as a people set apart?
If unbelievers have more than we do, why would they look to our God for provision? Why would they ask us how we achieved anything if they believe their way produces more fruit than ours? We’re not chasing wealth for its own sake, but we are called to live as a testimony of God’s goodness.
Psalm 23:1 says, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
When the Wells Were Stopped Up
As Isaac grew prosperous, the Philistines became jealous. They began to fill up the wells his father’s servants had dug. Every time Isaac found water, they claimed the well for themselves.
But Isaac did not fight. He simply moved on and dug another well. And every time, God provided water.
That’s the true lesson here.
Don’t waste your energy fighting with those who are jealous of you, those who oppose you, or those who try to steal from you. Don’t let envy or injustice distract you from the calling on your life.
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers… against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” – Ephesians 6:12
You are not fighting people; you are contending with the spirit that is influencing them. In Isaac’s case, it was the spirit of jealousy.
Still, he did not retaliate. Instead, he kept moving forward and digging wells. And God kept providing.
Build an Altar Where God Provides
Eventually, Isaac reached a place where he was no longer opposed. There, he built an altar (Genesis 26:25).
In biblical times, building an altar was an act of dedication. It meant that the land and the provision were being offered back to God. When something is dedicated to God, how can darkness stand against it?
“Do not take revenge… for it is written: ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” – Romans 12:19 & Deuteronomy 32:35
“I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten…” – Joel 2:25
God doesn’t just ask us to let go of revenge—He promises to restore what’s been lost. Not necessarily through the same people who took from us, but through His own hand.
So don’t expect the people who hurt you to repay you. Put your trust in God, and He will raise up provision in His perfect time and through His chosen vessels.
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” – Psalm 20:7
The story of Isaac and the wells teaches us that when opposition comes, we don’t need to strive. We need to trust.
Keep digging. Keep moving. Keep trusting.
The same God who caused water to spring up from the earth will surely provide for you, too.
“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.” – Proverbs 10:22
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