Day 5

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Scripture

January 5—Genesis 12-14: Abram’s Calling and Lot’s Compromise

Observation

About four hundred years after the flood, God called Abram to be the founder of a nation. The life of Abram is a study in walking by faith. Called to leave his home in Ur (near the Persian Gulf), Abram receives an exciting set of promises from God involving a new home, a great name, and a large family (12:1-3). Abram takes God at his word and begins the long journey to his new place of blessing. Along the way, he experiences detours where his faith wavers, disputes with worldly nephew Lot, and discouragements in his attempts to have a family. But through it all, Abram’s faith shines brightly, showing that in him God has found a man truly deserving of the title “the Friend of God” (James 2:23). On the other hand, when Abram gave Lot the choice of which land he wanted when their herds grew too large, Lot chose the well-watered plains of Jordan and it was the beginning of his downfall. It caused him to pitch his tent toward the wicked city of Sodom. By contrast, Abram was building his life on the promises of God. Lot chose for himself. Abram allowed God to choose for him.

Application

We know the evidence of knowing God is obeying God but what kind of faith do we have to have to obey based on a promise. Let’s consider what that meant to Abram. In Ur he left behind material wealth, an advanced civilization, good farming land, friends and family, and all that he had learned to call home. For what? A 1,000-mile journey through hostile environments to an unknown land based on nothing but a promise awaiting him at the end of the trip. Abram exercised his faith in God by moving, Noah did it by building a boat and Abel by offering a lamb. How can we be heroes of faith today? The writer of Hebrews 12 urged the runners in the race of faith to keep their eyes on Jesus and don’t be discouraged by difficult times.

Prayer

Almighty God, help us keep our faith strong and our mind stayed on you so that we too can be made worthy to be included in the hall of fame of the faithful. We as believers are living by faith and are sure that you will keep your promises according to your word. Thank you in Jesus name! Amen!








© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2019

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