Bearing Others’ Burdens: Abraham fights for Lot

Do you know someone who brings trouble upon himself or herself? In the end, others have to come to their rescue and bail them out. Dealing with these individuals can be draining, even after you have warned them and they rejected good counsel. However, as Christians, we have to remain willing to help others even when they make unwise decisions. Abraham had to go and fight for Lot after he made the bad choice to live in Sodom.

And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan. Gen 14:14 (KJV)

Lot was taken captive and Abraham had to gather a force to free him. There are individuals in our lives that may seem to go through the same things over  and  over  again. Yet,  God  has allowed it so that we can be demonstrators of His love and mercy.

Paul reminded the Galatians that they were  to do good unto all men. In addition, special consideration was to be given to those who are believers (Galatians 6:10). Do not hold back bearing others’ burdens, even if they are a burden to themselves. In doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ.

Prayer of the Week:

“I remember all that Christ did for me on today. I thank you he bore my transgressions and sins. On this day, I ask that you help me to bear others’ burdens in light of your goodness towards me. Amen”

Letting Go: Abraham pleads for Ishmael

Image by christianbiblereference.org

Friends, family, and acquaintances are important to our lives. We live in a world where we must interact and be interdependent upon others for love, support, and relationship. However, some individuals in our lives may prove to be useful only at certain times in our lives. It does not mean that there is a problem; however, God may want to bring others into our lives for continual growth and success in Him.

Abraham had to learn the reality of this truth. Because God’s promise was upon Sarah and Isaac, he would eventually have to let go of Ishmael that God’s promises to him would be established. However, Abraham protested.

And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee! Gen 17:18 (KJV)

Abraham loved Ishmael, but God’s covenant would be with Isaac. Abraham pleaded with God for Ishmael. On today, what people are in your life that you know that they will not be able to be with you always? Are you willing to let them go {not because you hate them or any problem exists} for the sake of continual growth and success in Christ?

They may be longtime friends and family members. It does not mean that there is no communication and fellowship, but their influence in your life has to be limited that God may bring to you all that He has for you. This may be a difficult task, but in the end, everyone will prosper. Later on, in this story, discover that God blessed Ishmael, though he had to leave his father.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, you know what is best for me and who is good for me. Help me to do what is necessary to please you. Amen.”