Straining Toward the Future

Abram received a promise from God that he would be the father of many nations. However, Abram still didn't have a single child at an advanced age. The dream seemed impossible, but Abram trusted God to make the dream a reality.

In a culture of entitlement, it's so easy to lose our sense of gratitude for all the blessings God has bestowed on us. In the story of the healing of the ten lepers, one leper returned to give thanks to Jesus for his healing. The question is: Does the tenth leper have any kindred spirits today?

When Abram's nephew, Lot, was taken captive by an army led by a coalition of kings, Abram rescued Lot and routed the superior army. Upon returning to Canaan, Abram was greeted by two very different kings. This episode from Abram's life shows his true greatness.

As Abram returned from his "adventures" in Egypt, he found himself even wealthier than he was before he went. His nephew, Lot, prospered along with Abram. In fact, they prospered so greatly that the land couldn't sustain their combined livestock. Abram gave Lot his pick of land. Lot made a choice that turned out to be a disaster for him and his family.

Jesus consistently taught that it was vital for His followers to forgive others when they were hurt or offended. In fact, He said that if we don't forgive those who sin against us, then our Father in heaven won't forgive our sins. When we understand the debt we've been forgiven, then we can turn around and offer that forgiveness to the people around us - no matter what they've done.

Although Abraham was a man of great faith, there were times in his life where he failed to live in that faith. Looking at his example teaches us some lessons about dealing with hardships in our lives in faith.