Scripture to Read: Genesis 12:8-9
In yesterday’s devotional, we heard the promise of God to give the offspring of Abram a land. We also observed Abram had yet to have offspring and the land promised was currently being occupied by the Canaanites. Rather than responding in unbelief to the LORD’s promise, Abram built an altar where the LORD had appeared to him. Today, in Genesis 12:8-9, we see this theme continue. Abram and his family continue their travels, but one thing does not change. As they enter between Bethel and Ai, Abram again takes the opportunity to offer worship to God. “And there he built an altar to the LORD and called upon the name of the LORD” (v. 8). There is something significant here that is worth meditating upon. Earlier in Genesis 12, we see God promise Abram to make his (Abram’s) name great. As Abram awaits for the fulfillment of this promise, he could become focused on when God will make his (Abram) name great. Yet, pay attention to what Abram does in Genesis 12:8. He calls “upon the name of the LORD.” He understands greatness is not found in his name but in the name of the LORD. The only reason Abram’s name will be seen as great is because it is promised by the one even greater than Abram, namely our Lord Jesus Christ. We have something to learn here. We are not called to live for ourselves or our own fame but to live a life for the glory of God that will be seen through our worship of God. Even as things change, our one consistent theme should be to call upon the name of the LORD and to depend upon Him and His promises.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about the importance of offering worship to Him?
2. How can you call upon the name of the LORD with the tasks and concerns you have today?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!