Daily Devotions
Genesis
"You are My friends if you do whatever I command you." John 15:14
Text: Genesis 18:1-33
GOD’S HAND IN ABRAHAM’S LIFE EXPLAINED
Abraham knew and appreciated God’s involvement in his life. The Lord had appeared to him on numerous occasions. On those occasions, he learned many deep and precious truths because the Lord was most patient in His teaching. He knew only too well, his own personal weaknesses. Through it all, God had stood by him, and provided much needed strength and encouragement. Once again, the Lord gave a special word of explanation to Abraham even as they conversed.
1. Reasons why God developed this strong rapport with Abraham
Why would God befriend a mere human being, even if his name is called Abraham? One of the reasons may be found in this text.
“For I have known him, in order that
he may command his children and his household after him,
that they keep the way of the Lord, to do righteousness
and justice…”GENESIS 18:19
a) Personal
Of course, God wanted Abraham to know Him personally. Abraham delighted in his knowledge and growing faith in God.
b) Posterity
God wanted Abraham to know Him so well that he would be able to leave a rich spiritual legacy to his descendants.
i) That they may keep the way of the Lord.
ii) That they may do righteousness and justice.
2. Fulfilment of God’s promise
Another powerful reason why God wanted to keep in close touch with Abraham was so that, through eyes of faith, he might be able to see that the Lord always keeps His promises.
“…that the Lord may bring to Abraham
what He has spoken to him…”GENESIS 18:19f
He would have an even greater sense of compulsion to teach the members of his household all that he knew about God. He would be able to speak that much more confidently because he had seen with his own eyes what kind of God he believed in!
APPRECIATING OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
Faith is a great gift from God. Faith is also the means by which we develop a potentially significant relationship or friendship with the Lord. Let us learn how to treasure the friendship that the Lord extends to us. Let us not take for granted the gift of friendship the Lord Jesus extends to all who believe in Him.