Scripture: Genesis 12
Today we are talking about a Call & Response from Genesis – the book of Beginnings. This is one of our key origins stories because we find out how Abraham became the father of the nation of Israel. The Islamic nations also see Abraham as their patriarch and father.
Have you responded to God’s call to follow Him?
If you have heard the Gospel, and you are wondering if you should respond… the answer is “YES”. Earlier Marion read from the Gospel of Mark. “Follow me. Whoever tries to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life My sake and the sake of the Gospel will save it. What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” You can’t do anything to save yourself. Only faith in Jesus Christ will save you.
How about those of you who have already started following God. How would you rate your faith? On a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 is I trust God and follow Him; down to a 1 where you are living in constant worry and fear.
Trials & Testing
When your faith is tested, like Abraham’s was – do you trust God. It’s not just trusting God with the big things, it’s day to day small stuff that we can trust God for too. Will He provide for my needs? Will He protect me and my family? Will He keep His promises? Yes!
So is it OK to lie to protect your family? God never condoned Abraham’s actions and even the ungodly Egyptian Pharaoh was surprised and condemned his deceitfulness. No. Lying is lying. God said do not lie to anyone or lie about someone else.
Even if it keeps God’s plans from being carried out? We talked about God’s providence last week. He is ultimately in control and we can see Him taking action to protect His people and make sure His plans are in place. Sometimes in spite of His people. Sometimes God uses unbelievers, like the Pharaoh of Egypt to see His purposes fulfilled.
When God shows up in your life with blessings, as He did with Abraham; do you stop to thank Him to worship and praise Him? God is calling for followers who can know Him and have a relationship with Him. Spend time talking to God through the day. Teach your kids how to do that too.
God’s Call – My Response
God is calling. Respond to His call today. Come talk to me if you are ready to step out in faith and trust Jesus Christ as your Savior. If you are ready to be baptized, or join the church, or you want to get more connected here at First Baptist – come to talk to me.
