Can I Trust God? (Abraham & Sarah) | Bible Story
Introduction
Welcome to St Mark’s United Methodist Church, where we delve into the rich teachings of the Bible and explore the stories that have shaped our faith. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the inspiring story of Abraham and Sarah, and how their unwavering trust in God can profoundly impact our own faith journeys.
The Journey of Abraham & Sarah
Abram, later known as Abraham, and his wife Sarai, later called Sarah, were chosen by God to fulfill a divine purpose. In the book of Genesis, their story unfolds as they journey through various trials and triumphs that ultimately test their faith in God's promises.
God's Promise
When Abraham was 75 years old, God appeared to him and made a covenant, promising to bless him with descendants as numerous as the stars. Despite their advanced age and Sarah's barrenness, Abraham trusted in God's promise. This unwavering faith would come to define their incredible journey.
The Waiting Game
As the years passed, Abraham and Sarah faced the difficult reality of waiting for God's promise to be fulfilled. Sarah's longing for a child grew, and she even suggested for Abraham to have a child with her servant, Hagar. However, God reassured Abraham that Sarah would bear a son, who would be named Isaac.
A Lesson in Patience
Abraham and Sarah continued to trust God's timing, even when doubt and impatience crept in. Despite their human limitations, they clung to their faith, believing in the power and faithfulness of God. It was through this prolonged waiting period that their character was shaped, teaching us the value of patience and surrendering to God's perfect plan.
Lessons in Faith
The story of Abraham and Sarah offers valuable insights and lessons that can strengthen our faith:
1. Trusting God's Promises
Abraham and Sarah exemplify the importance of trusting in the promises of God, even when circumstances seem impossible. Their story reminds us that God's plans are bigger than our own, and His promises will be fulfilled in His perfect timing.
2. Overcoming Obstacles
Abraham and Sarah faced numerous obstacles in their journey, from their struggle with infertility to their encounters with foreign kings. However, they persevered through the challenges, knowing that God was with them. Their story encourages us to face our own obstacles with faith and unwavering trust in God’s guidance and protection.
3. Faith in the Unknown
Abraham and Sarah stepped into the unknown, leaving their familiar surroundings to follow God's call. They had no guarantee of what lay ahead, but they trusted in God's faithfulness. Their story teaches us to have faith when confronted with uncertainty and to trust that God will lead us on the right path.
Applying the Story to Our Lives
The account of Abraham and Sarah challenges us to reflect on our own faith and trust in God. Here are some ways we can apply their story to our lives:
1. Deepening Our Trust
Like Abraham and Sarah, we can deepen our trust in God by seeking a personal relationship with Him through prayer, studying His Word, and surrounding ourselves with a supportive faith community. Trusting God requires continual surrender and an open heart to receive His guidance.
2. Embracing Patience
Waiting on God's timing can be challenging, but studying the story of Abraham and Sarah reminds us that God never forgets His promises. By cultivating patience, we learn to trust that God is working behind the scenes, orchestrating the perfect plan for our lives.
3. Stepping Out in Faith
Just as Abraham and Sarah stepped out in faith, we too can trust God's leading and be willing to take bold steps in our faith journey. It may involve stepping outside our comfort zones, surrendering control, and trusting that God will equip us for whatever lies ahead.
Conclusion
The story of Abraham and Sarah serves as a testament to the power of unwavering trust in God. Their faith in the face of adversity and uncertainty is a source of inspiration for believers today. At St Mark’s United Methodist Church, we invite you to explore the depths of this biblical narrative and discover how it can transform your own faith. Join our community as we come together to learn, grow, and trust in the unwavering love of God.
