What are some of the usual causes of discouragement or depression? One factor we often overlook is fatigue, either physical or emotional, which can bring about severe reaction. It would seem this could have been Abraham's problem as chapter 15 begins. If you like to look back at chapter 14, you will see the story of Lot's capture by the northern kings. Abraham's immediate reaction was to go after the captors and bring back Lot and his possessions. (14:10-12) Abraham travelled at least 600 to 700 km round trip. It included a night attack on the enemy. Now he is home again, successful but obviously tired. Remember he was over 80 years of age. God must have seen this and with His usual tender care of His child, He said, 'Do not be afraid, Abraham. I am your shield and your very great reward.' Yet Abraham voiced his problem and his discouragement. 'O Lord, you speak as if I am to have an extended family. But so far you have not given me even one child to carry on my name. The only heir I have is my servant, Eliezer.' God said, 'No, Eliezer is not your heir. Your own natural son will be. Come outside a minute. Can you count the stars I have made? You can't. That will be the same with your descendants.' Three times God challenged Abraham to think of his ultimate family. Once God said to count the stars, secondly to count the dust of the earth, and thirdly to count the sand on the seashore. What a family for a childless old man! What was Abraham's reply to God? Verse 9 says it so plainly, 'Abraham believed God and he credited it to Him as righteousness.' Righteousness is the right to able to stand before God and be accepted by Him. Abraham accepted what God had said. He believed it and God in turn accepted him because of his faith. REMEMBER: Faith is taking God at His Word and acting accordingly. |
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