Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Scripture: Genesis 12:1-7
In Genesis Chapter 12, we read that the LORD appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” Abram did as the LORD had told him, and the LORD promised to bless Abram. Everyone on earth would be blessed through Abram. When Abram built an altar there to the LORD to remember this special promise. Later we learn in Chapter 17 that the LORD made a covenant with Abram and changed his name to Abraham.
- How has the LORD appeared to you?
- What were you doing before the LORD spoke to you?
- What are the LORD’s promises to you?
- In what ways have you been changed by your relationship with the LORD?
- What actions have you taken to acknowledge the promises of the LORD?
The LORD hasn’t appeared to me in a literal sense, the way we read in Genesis. However, I have had many occasions on which I have experienced the presence of what I can only describe as “the LORD.” During my senior year of high school, I struggled with angst, confusion, and even deep depression. In a rage, I challenged God to show me the way or I would take matters into my own hands and schedule a face-to-face meeting with my maker. I sensed a revelation (a promise?) in which my life would be quite meaningful and enjoyable if I would simply choose to live it. It’s been 40 years since that encounter. Life has been filled with plenty of highs and lows, but reflecting back, it is clear to me that I made the right choice.
As Christians, we recognize the great fulfillment of God’s promise to Abram in the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Yet, even during Abram’s life, he was able to witness God’s promises fulfilled in which he was both blessed and a blessing to others. The promised land is anywhere and everywhere that God’s people gather to love Him and love each other. Let’s all rejoice in the ways in which we have been blessed and can be a blessing to others.
Sean Fenton was introduced to Jesus Christ as an infant by his parents and baptized through immersion at Yates by Ron Cumbie. He’s married to Judy Fenton, his inspiration to strengthen an authentic relationship with Jesus Christ.