As I have been reading through the book of Genesis, I continue to be amazed at how easy it is to relate to the stories of the individuals highlighted in the book. The obvious common thread is that God is at work in the lives of His people… even up against our will… and this is most evident in the way He has to continuously thwart our attempts to be in control.
In chapters 17 and 18, I was really struck by how much my life is similar to Abraham’s.
God gave Abram a new name.
Abram fell facedown, and God said to him, “As for me, this is my covenant with you: You will be the father of many nations. No longer will you be called Abram ; your name will be Abraham…” – Genesis 17:3-5
Abraham reverted to his old ways.
And Abraham said to God, “If only Ishmael might live under your blessing!” – Genesis 17:18
God’s grace and greatness prevailed.
Is anything too hard for the LORD? – Genesis 18:14
Just like Abraham, I was confronted by God because He wanted to give me a “new name” and set a new direction for my life. He saved me by His design through the blood of His son for the sake of His name and for a specific purpose. (Ephesians 1 & 2)
Just like Abraham, I have found myself offering God my suggestions on how to short cut His plan when I couldn’t see how things could possible workout the way God told me they would. I can’t tell you how many times I have offered God my “Ishmael” because of my lack of trust in Him coming through with His “Isaac”.
But!
Just like Abraham, I have seen God reject my simple, man made suggestions and prove that “nothing is too hard for the LORD”. God will not compromise and He will not accept a lesser way and He will not re-direct His plan for me. He has made me wait, for sure, but He has never failed me and He has never failed to do exactly what His word says He will do. He is too gracious and too great.
I am so thankful for a God who isn’t moved by my weak minded and trust lacking suggestions. God does as God says He will do and just like Abraham neither you or I can stop Him because He has promised to finish what He starts (Philippians 1:6).
So, just like Abraham… I’ve been given a new name and no matter how often I revert to my old ways, God will prove His grace and greatness.
