Scripture to Read: Genesis 12:3
As we continue in Genesis 12, we find out, though the blessing of Abram served the purpose to bless others, not everyone would receive the blessing. The LORD tells Abram this when He says, “I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (v. 3). For those who would bless Abram, they would receive blessing but for those who dishonored Abram, they would be cursed. Two questions stem from God’s word to Abram here: How would one know if they were bringing blessing or dishonor to Abram? What does this discussion on blessing and dishonoring Abram have to do with us as Christians today? Both of these questions find their answers in Galatians 3:7-9. In this New Testament letter, the Apostle Paul refers to Abram as “the man of faith” (v. 9). Furthermore, the Scripture says, “Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham” (v. 7). The point being made here in Galatians 3 is a person is made right with God by faith in Jesus, not by the works of the law. The passage highlights Abram’s faith and mentions those who follow in the line of Abram (those who believe in God and trust in His promise); they are the ones who are sons of Abram. Those who trust in the promise of salvation by faith in Jesus Christ are those who are receiving the blessing of Abram and are sons of Abram. Those who do not believe are those who will be cursed. Praise be to God, though, through the gospel God has brought the blessing to all nations!
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about the role faith plays in who is receiving blessing and who is cursed?
2. How are you living a life of faith and trusting in the promises of God and not in your good works?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!