First, God told Abram “Go … to a land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation” Genesis 12:1-2. Later God spoke a second time: “To your offspring I will give this land” 12:7. Then He spoke a third time: “I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted” 13:16. Abram continued to worship God, but years ticked by and he remained childless. Then God spoke a FOURTH TIME:
“‘Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield and your reward will be great.’ But Abram said, ‘Lord God, what can you give me, since I am childless ….’ And the Lord said ‘No, but one who comes from your own body will be your heir. Look at the sky and count the stars, if you are able. Your offspring will be that numerous” 15:1-5.
That was the FOURTH time God spoke to Abram. How did Abram respond?
“Abram believed the Lord and it was credited to him as righteousness” 15:6.
Abram believed. God knew his heart and God credited his belief. But did Abram believe God perfectly? Apparently not—because it was AFTER this that he took Sarai’s advice and had a child with her slave, Hagar.
I can relate. Sometimes I think I believe God perfectly, but then I am tempted to take matters into my own hands. It is hard to be patient. It is hard to watch the years roll by and dreams go unfulfilled. And remember how old Abram was? He was 100 years old when Isaac was born! 100! Who wouldn’t take matters into their own hands? You hear the clock ticking. You see the sands slipping through the hourglass.
It is hard. Sadly, it can even be hard when you have heard the voice of the Lord. But remember: God is not concerned with the timeline. He is building your CHARACTER and shaping your HEART.
God, give us faith and patience!
ΑΩ
Household Words: 