Day 7: Genesis 18-22

Since we reviewed a God-title yesterday, let's follow suit today. In Genesis 21 we are reminded of Abraham's fickleness (not his faithfulness). He does what he has done before...moving into self-preservation mode, he rationalizes the truth to deceive instead of trusting God. Abraham reveals his mortal condition, but God shows himself to be God. Moses reminds us that 'from everlasting to everlasting He is God' (Psalm 90:1-2) with these comforting words...He is our refuge! As God, once again, rescues Abraham from himself, He reminds him that the eternal God does not change. Abraham turns to worship, calling Him El Olam - the Eternal Sovereign.

This experience obviously had an impact on the greatest test of Abraham's faith. All of God's promises to Abraham seem wrapped up in Isaac...his legacy, his blessing, his very life. In that test, God wants to prove Abraham's trust. The truth is, all God's promises are wrapped up in God. He keeps His promises, for He is God Alone Who keeps His Word. We marvel at the unfolding drama, though we have read it again and again (Genesis 22). At the conclusion of the test, Abraham worships Yahweh Yireh - the LORD Provides (some prefer the anglicized version, Jehovah Jireh - including spell-check) . Indeed, those who trust Him wholly have learned this truth: God always provides for those who cast all their cares on Him, for those who place their hope in Him, for those who surrender their lives to Him.

How awesome is it that El Olam is also Yahweh Yireh!