Scripture text for Monday, January 11, 2010: Genesis 12:1-12:20
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God tells Abram to leave home, God will make him a great nation, yada yada yada. Typical Old Testament history, right? Take another look. As they say, “You can’t make this stuff up.” This would make a great movie!
God tells Abram, Sarai and their nephew Lot to leave their home, their family, their way of life, and move far away. This is no small request.
While this sets the stage for some fascinating drama, the intriguing aspect of this story, is the call and response between a man, and his Lord; the relationship, between Abram and God.
God calls Abram. On so many levels. He calls him to leave everything. He calls him out of his comfort zone. He calls him to a new place. He calls him to a new role. He calls him to be tested and refined.
Abram responds to God. He listens. He is willing. He is obedient. He exhibits amazing faith. He trusts. He worships. He perseveres.
God makes promises to Abram. He promises blessings. He promises to make his name great. He promises to take care of him.
And yet … Abram isn’t willing to give all control to God. In Egypt, his fears lead to dishonesty, at Sarai’s expense. He accumulates wealth based on his lies. He eventually suffers the consequences when it becomes an inconvenient liability.
God kept his promises. Abram’s name is great and he was blessed. Abram had great faith and trusted in God. God will keep his promises to you. Where are you with your faith and trust?
How is God calling you?
How are you responding to God?
Devotion prepared by Lisa Harker