Faith Over PerfectionSample

Read: Genesis 21:22–34; Romans 12:9–21 

SOAP: Romans 12:18

If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all people.

Genesis 21 continues to describe the ways God removed potential threats to the promise. The second aspect of the promise was that Abraham’s descendants would receive the land of Canaan and would dwell there. However, at the time, Abraham did not have a legal claim to the land. 

Abimelech recognized two things about Abraham: that God was with him and that Abraham was not always trustworthy. Abraham and Abimelech came to a peaceful agreement over a well, confirming that Abraham could remain in the land. By planting a tree there Abraham established a permanent reminder to himself and his descendants of God’s promise: God would give them the land. Abraham stayed in the land and the tree was a reminder of his faith and the security of the promise. 

With the treaty, God removed another threat to the promise. Even though Isaac was still a child and even though Abraham did not have a claim to the land he had been promised, Abraham could see God working to fulfill His promise and remove any threats. God was continually with Abraham, promising protection and provision.

The final aspect of the promise was that Abraham (and his descendants) would be a blessing to all nations. The inclusion of this story in Genesis reminded the generation of Israelites entering the Promised Land how they were to behave with other nations. The peaceful resolution of disputes was to be their goal. Abimelech knew Abraham belonged to God, and by peacefully resolving the conflict, Abraham was a blessing to his neighbor. The same would be true for Israel: when their neighbors recognized they were chosen by God they were able to be a blessing to those neighbors. 

We too are a blessing to others when they recognize and understand that we belong to Christ. When we seek to live in obedience to Christ, we also become a blessing to our neighbors. As we strive for peaceful relationships we show the love of Christ, the ultimate blessing and fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I desire to be a blessing to those around me. Show me how I can live in peace with my neighbors, friends, and family. Allow me to bless others with truth and with the hope of salvation that You have given me. Amen.