Scripture to Read: Genesis 12:10-20
In Genesis 12:10-20, we see Abram respond with lying and get blessed while Pharoah is afflicted. Knowing the testimony of Scripture, sin is never rewarded with blessings. Therefore, it is important to understand what is going on here. The best way to summarize this part of Abram’s life is found in 2 Timothy 2:13, “if we are faithless, He remains faithful.” During the time of a famine, Abram and Sarai enter Egypt. As they approach, Abram comes up with a plan to deceive the Egyptians into believing Sarai is his sister and neglecting to share with them she is his wife. Why does he do this? The reason Abram lies is because of his fear. He feared they would notice the beauty of Sarai and kill him. The problem we see here is that Abram failed to trust the promise of God, that a multitude of offspring would come from him. The obvious fact assumes that Abram has to be alive to have offspring. Pharoah takes Sarai to his house and blesses Abram with many things as we see in Genesis 12:16. Nevertheless, Abram’s plan falls apart when Pharoah is afflicted with plagues and confronts Abram on his deception. However, although Pharoah could very well have killed Abram, he instead sent him away. Abram’s life is spared, and he and Sarai are sent away. The clear lesson we learn from what could be a confusing story is that God remains faithful to His promise even in our faithlessness, evidenced by fear and sin. Trust in His promises, and do not give way to fear and faithlessness.
Challenge & Application
What does this passage show us about God’s faithfulness to His word?
What areas have you given in to fear instead of trusting in the faithfulness of God?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!