The Ebb and Flow of Faith

On that very day Abraham took his son, Ishmael, and every male in his household, including those born there and those he had bought. Then he circumcised them, cutting off their foreskins, just as God had told him.

Genesis 17:23

Here is the ebb and flow of faith writ large. Only moments earlier Abraham had laughed with disbelief over God's promises of a son through Sarah (v. 17). But then Abraham obeyed God explicitly, circumcising himself and the males in his household. Such an act required a deep commitment to God and his ways.

Our relationship with God is like this. Moments of doubt are juxtaposed with acts of obedience. Uncertainty and confidence are mixed as we grow into deeper knowledge of God. By his grace, we will move into greater trust and more consistent obedience.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: Are you in a place of laughing doubt today? Or faithful obedience? Or somewhere in between?

PRAYER: Once again I thank you, Lord, for the compelling example of Abraham. His relationship with you is so genuine, so varied, so much like my own.

Dear Lord, may I live this day in obedience to you. Help me to trust you enough to do what you have asked of me. By your grace, may I grow in the direction of deeper faith and more consistent obedience. Amen.