Yesterday we started an investigation into the life of a man called Abraham who started out on an unexpected journey. Not a young man, but one who was obedient to respond to an invitation given by God.
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty. Obey me and do what is right. I will make an agreement between us, and I will make you the ancestor of many people.”
Genesis 17:1-2
Today we see how Abraham had an unexpected visitor and how the visit would yet again change everything.
Before we look at this event I want you to know that like Abraham, God is constantly interested in you and your journey in life, no matter what your circumstances are in. The same invitation is given to you; God ultimately desires a relationship with you, but it is your decision. Abraham made his choice and I hope you do too.
Abraham is ninety nine and minding his own business when God appears again. He starts by telling us His name, a subject worth taking time to study, for there are many names attributed to God and for each name you will find an answer to your current situation. God announces Himself as God Almighty. That suggests to me He can do all things.
The visit is a name-changing one as Abram becomes Abraham and Sarai becomes Sarah. What is the difference and why? The difference in both names is an H and the reason is God Himself is involved in the life of these two people.
What God did for Abraham, He has also done for you and me. Isn’t this exciting that the same H is involved with you and me. The Bible says we are a new creation, because of Him. Jesus Himself has come into our life and the Bible tells us one day we like Abraham will have a new name. Take a look at this verse and give God thanks.
I will also give to each one who wins the victory a white stone with a new name written on it. No one knows this new name except the one who receives it
Revelation 2:17
As we continue looking at this visit, God announces more news to this couple namely a birth of a child. Preposterous you might say? They are in their nineties! Yes, that is the same reaction this couple make. “Abraham bowed facedown on the ground and laughed. He said to himself “Can a man have a child when he is a hundred years old? Can Sarah give birth to a child when she is ninety?” Both laughed.
Note for Consideration
God had plans for Abraham and Sarah, though were quite elderly and had no children. Not exactly great prospects. Read Genesis 17:1-18; 21:1-8.
God has plans for you, no matter what your current prospects are. God asks us (like Abraham) for our obedience and to leave the rest to Him. The H is very much in our situation today, it is not hopeless but hopeful because the one whose name is the God Almighty stands by you. You carry His name and can do the impossible. Be encouraged as we together take a further look at this story.
For reflection
Abraham and Sarah’s son Isaac is born over 20 years after the first promise from God and within the year which was prophesied by the three visitors.
- Abraham and Sarah laughed at His promises. Are we as guilty in the same way of believing God’s promises to us?
- What does the arrival of Isaac tell us about God?