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Build an Altar 

We have to let go of the old to lay hold of the new. We have to leave what’s comfortable if we want to experience God as our provider, our defender, and our way-maker. God called Abram away from everything he knew to a land God had not yet revealed. But God’s promise to Abram far outweighed his need to know every detail about the journey ahead. It’s the same for you and me. 

We are pilgrims traveling to a most holy city. And God’s promise over us far outweighs our need to control every twist and turn. We’re on a need-to-know basis, and when we need to know, God will let us know! But this we do know: The land ahead is a good land. And our good God will ensure we make it to our new home safely. Will you pause today and build an altar of remembrance? Before you take another step, remember His faithfulness. Remember His goodness. It’ll strengthen you for the road ahead.

We can go through life one of two ways: We can posture for position, constantly trying to maintain control, or we can live wholly submitted to God, trusting Him with every step. But did you know that God will never bless faithless posturing? He won’t pour provision into a clenched fist. Both Abram and Lot acquired great wealth. Soon the herdsmen began to bicker, and the two men needed to part ways. 

Abram gave Lot first choice of the land. Though Lot had benefited greatly from Abram’s constant generosity, he still grabbed for himself the best share of land, even though it meant he’d live among the ungodly. His story didn’t end well. 

Scarcity and abundance both reveal the condition of our hearts in different ways. If we’ll grab for ourselves in difficult times, we’ll grab for ourselves when there’s more than enough to go around. As Christ-followers, it’s always a good idea to refuse selfishness, to open our hands, and receive and release. We can trust God.

No matter which season you find yourself in at the moment, determine to release your grip on anything you’re holding too tight. Breathe in faith. Exhale fear. And know that God does His best work through His surrendered saints.

Lord, You come to me with open-handed provision, so I come to You with open-handed trust. You’ve always provided, so I have nothing to fear. I trust You, Father. Amen.