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All actions that are taken by man are part of God’s plan, whether or not they are aware of it. Even ones that are seemingly negative play a role in the carrying out God’s ideas. Throughout the book of Genesis, there are numerous examples of the relationship between man’s actions and God’s intent. Initially negative ones are especially evident in chapters 12-50. An example is the birth of Ishmael to Hagar and Abram. Another instance is the story of Jacob’s deception to his father. A prime example of the relationship is Joseph and his brothers at the end of Genesis. In Genesis 16, it is discovered that Sarah, wife of Abraham is barren and cannot produce children. As a result, he procreates with Hagar and Ishmael is born. (Genesis 16:15) Eventually, Sarah is given the ability to have children and Isaac is born. Sarah insists that Ishmael and Hagar be sent away from their household. Abraham does not want to send him away, but does after he speaks to God. God says "Do no be distressed because of the boy and because of your slave woman; whatever Sarah says to you, do as she tells you, for it is through Isaac that offspring shall be named for you.
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