Father Abraham

Last night I was reading out of Romans in Chapter Four where Paul talks about how Abraham was blessed not because he was circumcised but because God chose to bless him before Abraham had done anything noteworthy. God set everything up for Abraham but Abraham's lack of faith caused him to take the blessing into his own hands and "help" God.

Abraham didn't have to do anything to help God. And when his lack of faith led him to a poor decision, the effects were far-reaching. I doubt Abraham realized the effect of his lack of faith would have on the world. His first son that he had out of doubt would end up being the son who Islamic people trace their religion back to. Father Abraham is the father of many nations.

What peace would be in the Middle East without Islamic beliefs? The line from Ishmael was foretold by an angel of the Lord like this, "He will be a wild donkey of man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone's hand against him, and he will live in hostility towards all his brothers."

The Israelites cross paths with Ishmael’s decedents often in the Old Testament. And in modern day life, as Abraham’s decedents that are grafted into the family tree through Christ, we now cross path’s with Ishmael’s decedents as well and not much has changed from the angel's words over Ishmael to his decendants now.

How often do we make decisions out of a lack of faith and vision from God that have disastrous endings? They rob us of peace. The create strife. They can be far-reaching. Have peace as you abide in Christ awaiting his promises. Don’t create opportunities for God, he will create opportunities for you.