This is a simplified version of the Bible story found in Genesis 21:10-21, written for children to understand. For the original version, please refer to the Bible passage.
One day, Sarah, Abraham’s wife, was not happy with Hagar, her servant, and her son Ishmael. She told Abraham to send them away, and he was very sad because he loved his son. But God spoke to Abraham and told him to listen to Sarah and do as she said. God promised that He would take care of Ishmael and make him the father of a great nation.
So early the next morning, Abraham gave Hagar some bread and water and sent her and Ishmael away. They wandered in the desert until their water was all gone. Hagar was so worried that she left Ishmael under a bush and went to sit far away so she wouldn’t have to watch him die.
But God heard the cries of Ishmael and sent an angel to help Hagar. The angel told Hagar to pick up Ishmael and showed her a well of water that she hadn’t seen before. God was with Ishmael, and he grew up to be strong and skilled with a bow. He married a woman from Egypt, and he became the father of a great nation, just like God had promised.
Biblical Lessons
- God keeps His promises and takes care of His people.
- Even when things are difficult and we are lost, God hears our prayers and provides for us.
- We should trust God’s plan even when it doesn’t seem to make sense.
Related Stories
Must-Read Christian Books
Mere Christianity
Lewis lays out the core beliefs of the Christian faith with clarity, logic, and imagination, rooted in Scripture.
View on Amazon
The Cost of Discipleship
A penetrating look at Jesus' call to follow Him, contrasting cheap grace with true, costly discipleship.
View on Amazon
Systematic Theology
A comprehensive, evangelical overview of Christian doctrine with Scripture at every point.
View on Amazon
Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God
A robust, Scripture-saturated theology of prayer with practical guidance for deepening communion with God.
View on Amazon
A Call to Spiritual Reformation
Walks through Paul's prayers to teach believers how to pray biblically and God-centeredly.
View on Amazon
The Gospel for Real Life
Shows how the finished work of Christ applies to everyday struggles and assurance.
View on Amazon
The Enemy Within
A modern, accessible summary of John Owen's teaching on indwelling sin and the believer's battle.
View on Amazon
According to Plan
An introduction to biblical theology that shows how all Scripture points to Christ.
View on Amazon
Nine Marks of a Healthy Church
Outlines nine biblical priorities for congregations that want to be faithful and healthy.
View on Amazon
Concise Theology
Short, Scripture-filled summaries of key doctrines, written with clarity and warmth.
View on Amazon
The Heidelberg Catechism
A beloved Reformation catechism that teaches comfort in Christ through a Q&A format.
View on Amazon
The Westminster Confession of Faith
A historic confession that systematically sets forth Reformed theology from Scripture.
View on Amazon
Religious Affections
Examines the nature of true spiritual experience and the marks of genuine conversion.
View on Amazon
Christian Mission in the Modern World
Clarifies key biblical concepts like evangelism, mission, and social action.
View on Amazon
Operation World
A prayer handbook with up-to-date information on nations and their gospel needs.
View on Amazon