Lessons From Abraham's Life

I have not got past Genesis 25 yet. I have read 12 through 25 several times now and wanted to share some quick thoughts I have had about Abraham’s life.

I was struck by the love Abraham had for his nephew Lot. It shows in chapter 13. Abraham is content with what God has provided for him, and is willing to sacrifice having the seemingly better land. Here is Abraham giving Lot the choice of land. I think about how I feel when someone takes “MY” land in front of my car when I am driving.

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5


Aside from his nasty habit of telling people his wife was his sister and that whole Ishmael thing, Abraham showed remarkable faith throughout his life. When you read his story, you can see him grow from each situation. By the time the Lord asks him to sacrifice Isaac, Abraham had reached a point where he could trust the Lord. I get a feeling that if this had happened earlier, Abraham would have failed. The Lord perfectly waited until Abraham was ready for such a challenge.

My brethren,  count it all joy  when you fall into various trials,  knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. James 1:2-3

Chapter 23 showed the testimony Abraham had. The Hittites called Abraham a mighty prince in verse 6. Abraham lived his life following Godly principles. Those made him stand out from the corrupt society around him. Those people were able to see the Lord through Abraham. Abraham did not sequester himself away from those people. He lived in their land. At the same time, he knew that the Lord had chosen him and separated him and his offspring from the Canaanites.

You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14

Do not love the world or the things in the world.  If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh,  the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And  the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:15-17.