Scripture to Read: Genesis 17:15-27
As we wrap up this week, we see in Genesis 17:15-21 that just as God had given Abraham a new name, God also gave Sarai (meaning my princess, signifying she belongs to only one family) a new name, Sarah (meaning a princess, signifying she is the princess to a multitude). As God gave Sarai her new name, God made it clear in Genesis 17:16 that “she shall become nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.” It’s interesting to note that Abraham’s initial response, in Genesis 17:17, to God’s promise was to fall down and laugh. Abraham even asks God, in Genesis 17:17, “Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?” What seemed to be absolutely humanly impossible to Abraham was not impossible at all with God. In fact, when God promises anything to happen, there is no doubt that it will happen. Even in what Abraham considered a hilarious moment, at the thought of having a baby at such an old age, God told Abraham to name his son Isaac, which means “laughter.” We have read about a lot of sin and disbelief being displayed throughout Genesis so far. But even with the sin and disbelief, God kept His promise. After all the years of waiting, God told Abraham that he and Sarah would have a baby by the following year. After God left, Abraham obeyed His command and had every male circumcised, including himself. Obedience to God is always our only option.
Challenge & Application
What did God teach you today about the name changes and about obedience to Him, no matter what He asks?
How are you living in obedience to God, even when it seems like an impossible task to carry out?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!