DAY 101 - BIG PICTURE IN A YEAR - THE PROMISE

Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him.

Genesis 21:2

Reading: Genesis 21:1-7, Isaiah 42:8, Isaiah 48:11, Galatians 4:4-6

There must have been great joy in Abraham and Sarah’s household when baby Isaac was born. Isaac’s name even means ‘laughter’. Abraham was one hundred years old and Sarah was ninety years old when Isaac was born.

It must also have been such a relief for Sarah because she was seventy-six years old when Ismael was born. She had watched Ismael grow up for fourteen years before she came to the place in her walk with God where she really trusted in the word of the Lord. There best, most well-thought through plans that they had made to “help” Almighty God were now clearly seen as evidence that they had not really trusted God. How humble they must have felt in the midst of their joy.

What can we learn from the words “at the very time God had promised him”? When delays occur, it is easy to develop a snarky attitude towards God, imagining that He doesn’t care for us because He does things in His own time. He is constantly urging us to come to a place of restful trust in His word, so that when He acts there can be no confusion as to who has actually performed the miracle in your life. The Lord will not share his glory with any person. When you think that you can help God out by making a plan He will simply wait until you have reached a place of trust and faith. All God’s promises are conditional to you trusting Him, lest you snatch at some of His glory.

Prayer

Lord I thank you that at the fullness of time you sent us Jesus. I ask for ears to hear your Word and a heart that is quick to trust you no matter how long it takes to come to pass.

FOR THE FAMILY

Explain & Engage

Briefly share the study in an age-appropriate way and then talk about promises. How important is it to keep our promises? Does God always keep His promises?