[Missy4]

Ishmael was not illegitimate. Sarah gave Hagar to Abraham when she became impatient and unwilling to wait for the fulfillment of the promise in God's timing. Ishmael was born first but the promise was to be fulfilled by the child of Abraham and Sarah so that is why Isaac is recognized in that way. God did not abandon Hagar and Ishmael. He sent the angel to help them when they were alone in the wilderness. Abraham got married again after Sarah died but the promise was to be fulfilled and carried by Isaac.