Topical Encyclopedia Abraham, originally named Abram, is a central figure in the Bible, known for his unwavering faith and obedience to God. His life is marked by several pivotal decisions that not only shaped his own destiny but also the course of biblical history. These decisions are recorded primarily in the Book of Genesis and serve as profound examples of faith and trust in God's promises.Call to Leave Haran One of the first significant decisions Abraham made was to leave his homeland in response to God's call. In Genesis 12:1-4 , God commands Abram, "Go forth from your country, your kindred, and your father's house, to the land I will show you." Despite the uncertainties and the lack of a clear destination, Abram obeyed, demonstrating his faith in God's promise to make him a great nation. This decision set the stage for the unfolding of God's covenant with him. Separation from Lot Another critical decision occurred when Abram and his nephew Lot faced strife between their herdsmen due to the abundance of their possessions. In Genesis 13:8-9 , Abram said to Lot, "Please let there be no strife between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are brothers. Is not the whole land before you? Please separate from me. If you go to the left, I will go to the right; if you go to the right, I will go to the left." Abram's decision to allow Lot the first choice of land demonstrated his humility and trust in God's provision, even when it meant potentially receiving the less fertile land. Covenant of Circumcision In Genesis 17, God established the covenant of circumcision with Abraham, a decision that required Abraham to circumcise every male in his household as a sign of the covenant. Genesis 17:23 states, "On that very day Abraham took his son Ishmael and all those born in his household or purchased with his money—every male among the members of Abraham’s household—and he circumcised them, as God had told him." This decision was a testament to Abraham's commitment to God's commands and his role as the father of many nations. Intercession for Sodom Abraham's decision to intercede for the city of Sodom is another notable moment. In Genesis 18:22-33, Abraham pleads with God to spare the city if righteous people can be found within it. This decision reflects Abraham's compassion and his understanding of God's justice and mercy. His boldness in approaching God on behalf of others highlights his role as a mediator and a man of deep faith. Sacrifice of Isaac Perhaps the most profound decision Abraham faced was the command to sacrifice his son Isaac. In Genesis 22:2 , God said, "Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the land of Moriah. Offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will show you." Abraham's willingness to obey, even to the point of sacrificing his beloved son, demonstrated his absolute trust in God's promises. Hebrews 11:17-19 later reflects on this decision, noting that Abraham reasoned God could raise the dead, showing his faith in God's power and faithfulness. Sending Away Hagar and Ishmael In Genesis 21:9-14, Abraham faced the difficult decision to send away Hagar and his son Ishmael at Sarah's insistence. God reassured Abraham, saying in Genesis 21:12 , "Do not be distressed about the boy and your maidservant. Listen to everything Sarah tells you, for through Isaac your offspring will be reckoned." Abraham's decision to comply with God's directive, despite his personal anguish, underscored his obedience and trust in God's plan for both Isaac and Ishmael. Abraham's life is a testament to the power of faith-driven decisions. His choices, often made in the face of uncertainty and personal sacrifice, exemplify a life lived in obedience to God's will. Through these decisions, Abraham became the patriarch of the Israelite nation and a model of faith for generations to come. Nave's Topical Index Hebrews 11:8,17-19By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing where he went. Nave's Topical Index Library Abraham, the Man of Prayer The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... Faustus Does not Think it Would be a Great Honor to Sit Down with ... Our Status. Moses, Allowing Divorce, and Christ Prohibiting It, Explained John ... It is a Matter of Doubt, Whether Believers under the Old Testament ... Letter Lxxvi. (AD 402. ) A Loving Call to Reunion Chapter xix D. The Birth of John, and the "Benedictus. " Ch. 1:57-80 Resources What does the Bible say about indecision / being indecisive? | GotQuestions.orgWho is really “playing God”'the doctor who euthanizes a dying patient, or the doctor who extends the life of a terminally ill patient? | GotQuestions.org What is revivalism? | GotQuestions.org Decision: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Decision: Exhibited in Being on the Lord's Side Decision: Exhibited in Blessedness of Decision: Exhibited in Following God Fully Decision: Exhibited in Keeping the Commandments of God Decision: Exhibited in Loving God Perfectly Decision: Exhibited in Seeking God With the Heart Decision: Exhibited in Serving God Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Decision: Necessary to the Service of God Decision: Opposed to a Divided Service Decision: Opposed to Double-Mindedness Decision: Opposed to Halting Between Two Opinions Decision: Opposed to not Setting the Heart Aright Decision: Opposed to Turning to the Right or Left Valley of Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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