June 21
Scripture Reading: Genesis 18:16-21
“For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.”
Was Abraham a perfect man? One glimpse of his life reveals the answer to that question. No, he was not a perfect man. As a man of faith, did he ever doubt? Yes! As a man of principle, did he ever falter! Yes! Was Abraham a sinner? Yes! But, he was a man of faith; a man who was called “the Friend of God.” (See 2 Chronicles 20:7; Isaiah 41:8; James 2:23)
The last phrase in the above noted verse is worthy of much contemplation. It tells us that Abraham was able to be blessed with the fulfillment of God’s promises to him: “that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.” When I read this, it makes me wonder how many of the blessings of the Lord I have missed for God would not give me those blessings because of some shortcoming in my life. It makes me wonder how many of God’s intended blessings are forfeited through unbelief, disobedience and sin in believer’s lives. What a challenge this should be to all of God’s children! God has wonderful plans for our lives, and blessed promises of peace and joy that are our’s to claim. Of course, we have been given the promise of eternal life in the place that He has gone to prepare, but we have also been promised blessings in this current life. Unfortunately, many live far beneath their privilege as children of the Most High God. Father, help us to receive from You all that You have intended for us in Christ. Amen!
Pastor Steve Smith
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