Genesis 20 records the account of Abraham and Abimelech. It is another act of unbelief in the life of the Father of our Faith. Abraham tells a half-truth that Sarah is his sister, but doesn’t mention the fact that she is his wife. Abimelech takes Sarah into his harem. If Abimelech has relations with her the promise could be in danger, but God intervenes through a dream to Abimelech. Abimelech fears God and appeals to the fact that he didn’t know. He then questions Abraham about his deception. Abraham’s feeble excuses are unconvincing. Abraham appears weak and faithless. It is Abraham’s being chosen to be the father of the promise that helps him through this situation and not his faith. Abimelech respects Abraham as God’s chosen and shows respect and faith of his own by bestowing generous gifts on him. Abraham in the end prays a blessing on Abimelech in keeping with his original calling, “Bless those who bless you.”
This account reminds me to stay focused on my faith, and not to be ashamed of it. I remember Dr. Jack MaGorman, one of my professors at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, praying often before class, “Lord, help me not to do anything that would cause me to lose my witness as I get older.” Dr. MaGorman was known for being a man of God. It made a huge impression on me in my twenties to see such an accomplished Christian and scholar fearful that he might do something to embarrass the Lord. Now that I grow closer to the age he was when he prayed that prayer I understand his heart. I have witnessed so many men and women of God that did not finish well.
“Lord, keep my faith strong even when I am fearful. Give me courage to tell the truth at all times. In every situation let me tell and show others Jesus. I pray this in Jesus’ precious name. Amen.”
About Me
- Robert and Ray Miller
- Robert is the pastor of First Baptist Texas City, Tx. And Ray is the pastor of First Baptist Mertens, Tx. Robert brings over 30 years of biblical study as a pastor. Ray brings a younger perspective to the Bible and also a command of the original languages. Our greatest passion is to see lives changed through the good news of Jesus Christ.
2 comments:
What a beautiful commentary was written for today's reading. I, too, pray I will be an effective witness to all with whom I come in contact.
This chapter also shows me how people in the world will be able to detect that we are God's children and will be drawn to that. Each day each word, each thought must be brought under the will of the Holy Spirit so we can win others to Jesus Christ.
If one could just apply the " what would Jesus do" criterion to each decision you will find the answers get a lot easier. I wish I did through out my life and I strive to apply it now.
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