How can we trust God's promises like Abram did in Genesis 15:17? The Setting: A Night of Covenant Genesis 15:17: “When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, behold, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces.” Abram had cut animals in two, arranging the halves opposite each other. In ancient Near Eastern covenants, the lesser party would normally walk between the pieces, accepting the curse of death if he broke the agreement. Instead, God Himself—symbolized by the smoking firepot and blazing torch—passed between the pieces. The Almighty took the obligation on Himself alone. God’s Dramatic Guarantee • God binds Himself by oath – Hebrews 6:17-18: “God, willing to make the unchanging nature of His purpose very clear … confirmed it with an oath, so that … we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be strongly encouraged.” • God stakes His own character – Numbers 23:19: “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind.” • God gives visible, tangible signs – The smoking firepot and blazing torch matched the cloud and fire later seen in the Exodus (Exodus 13:21-22), reminding Israel that the same covenant-keeping God was still with them. Why Abram Could Trust 1. God initiated the covenant—Abram simply believed (Genesis 15:6). 2. God alone walked the aisle—Abram witnessed, but did not add to the promise. 3. God’s promise was anchored in His unchanging nature, not in Abram’s performance. Romans 4:20-21: “Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God was able to do what He had promised.” Building the Same Trust Today • Remember who made the promise – Jesus is the “Yes” and “Amen” to every promise (2 Corinthians 1:20). • Review the covenant documents – Regular, attentive reading of Scripture keeps God’s sworn words fresh in mind (Psalm 119:11). • Recall past faithfulness – Personal testimonies and biblical history both showcase a flawless track record (Joshua 23:14). • Rest, don’t strive – Salvation and all associated promises come by grace through faith, not by human effort (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Rely on the Spirit’s seal – Ephesians 1:13: “Having believed, you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.” Key Takeaways • God’s covenant in Genesis 15 is unilateral—His faithfulness guarantees fulfillment. • Trust grows as we focus on the Promise-Giver’s character rather than our circumstances. • The God who walked the bloody path for Abram has walked the path to Calvary for us; therefore His promises are eternally secure. |
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