His story spans three of the world's major religions, Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Abraham is indeed a hero of the faith. What endears him to me is, regardless of his iconic status, Abraham still made mistakes. For example, twice Abraham lied to Pharaoh, saying his wife, Sarah, was his sister (see Genesis 12 & 20). In spite of his failings Abraham was called a "friend of God."
In a recent study of Paul's letter to Rome I stumbled upon another reason to like Abraham. In chapter four Paul says, Abraham "... believed, hoping against hope, so that he became the father of many nations according to what had been spoken." How did he do that? Check out the next few verses:
He considered his own body to be already dead (since he was about 100 years old) and the deadness of Sarah's womb, without weakening in the faith. He did not waver in unbelief at God's promise but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God,So Abraham considered a couple things.
1. He was old, 100 years old.
2. His wife was barren. Infertile her whole life...barren.
But don't miss the last part. Even after his consideration of very real, physical obstacles Abraham didn't waiver. He held to his conviction. God has promised him and He was faithful.
How very appropriate to us today. God's promises are true but there are always things, situations, circumstances in our lives that seem insurmountable. It's okay, normal even, to think through, read "consider," these things just don't waiver. Stick to your conviction. Our Father is not a promise breaker. Praise Him! Thanks Abraham for the reminder.
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