Bible Chapter: Genesis 20
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.This is a unique story. We find that Abraham was a real person. He had his ups and downs. Even as a great man of God he was not perfect. He had times of great faith, such as when he left his homeland and traveled a long distance following God’s direction, even when he didn’t know where they would end up. Here, he had a great lack of faith in trusting God. He didn’t believe God would protect them. He lied about Sarah being his wife. He lied in the fact that he both stretched the truth and hid the truth. This could have brought major problems and blocked God’s plan for the redemption of the world.
Abilelech, King of Gerar had taken Sarah to be his wife. She must have been quite an amazing woman. God spoke to the king and prevented him from being with her. He sent her back to Abraham and chided him for his deception. One insight that we do see here is Abraham’s understanding that people who don’t fear God are likely to do anything they want. This is why he lied about Sarah. There is safety in being with people who are genuinely living a Godly life.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
The issue of trusting God must be a constant in life. If we say God is directing us, then we must actually trust Him. This is a challenge to trust God at all times with all things. When Abraham showed his complete trust in God, things worked out in God’s timing. They waited many years for their son to be born. But, in God’s timing, it all happened just as God said it would. This is a good illustration of the message of Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
3. How can I help someone?
Many people live in fear. How are they going to make it in life. Who can they trust? I want to help people understand that they can trust God.
