Genesis 26: His Father's Son

Genesis 26 shows us how Isaac followed in his father's footsteps.  Most importantly, he inherits the covenant promise that God extended to Abraham.  Isaac, not Ishmael, will receive the blessings (vs. 3-4, 24).  Like his father, Isaac grows powerful and wealthy with flocks and herds (vs. 13-16).  Also following his father's example, Isaac digs wells and builds altars (vs. 18, 25).  Surprisingly, Isaac even uses his father's old line of "She's not my wife, she's my sister" with Abimelech - the same guy that Abraham said it to in Genesis 20!  (This is one part of the story I will always struggle to understand!)  Fortunately, Abimelech finds out the truth before any harm is done.  I guess the more things change, the more they stay the same!