Day 6: Going a Step Further

As with each preceding generation, Isaac went a step further than his father.

Taking an extra step forward does not nullify the previous steps, rather, it acknowledges that each generation’s steps form part of a greater journey. Terah’s footsteps served as a foundation for Abraham’s, underscoring the significance of those who have come before us in shaping the course of our lives. Isaac followed the example of his father Abraham, who had gone a step further than his own father, Terah, and took it even further. The God of Abraham, who was previously known as such, would thereafter be identified as the God of both Abraham and Isaac.

Generational provision is a fruit of generational faith. The fruit of being able to provide for future generations is rooted in the faith that is passed down through multiple generations. The reason Isaac had wells to re-dig was because Abraham had already dug them. The fact that Abraham had already dug the wells meant that Isaac did not have to start from scratch. The establishment of the covenant with Isaac was dependent on the obedience of Abraham. God even stated this in verse 5 of Genesis 26 when he said, “I will do this because Abraham listened to me and obeyed all my requirements, commands, decrees, and instructions.” The obedience displayed by one generation had a lasting impact on the blessing that the next generation received.

Hebrews 11 provides an in-depth review of how faith has been demonstrated by numerous individuals throughout history, starting with Abel and concluding with the martyrs of the New Testament. The acts of faith mentioned are not independent instances that impact just one person, but they are all interrelated and together form a cohesive fabric of faith.

The faith of your ancestors is an integral part of your own faith and without it, your faith is incomplete. The prayers of those who have gone before you are being fulfilled through your life, and the abundance you experience is a testament to generational faith. Just because it happens in your lifetime doesn’t mean that it started or will end with you.

Every person’s life is an integral piece of God’s multi-generational plan. In Hebrews 12:2, Christ is identified as the author and finisher of our faith. He not only sets the perfect example of faith but also represents the ultimate goal of faith.

It was through Christ’s sacrifice and the fulfillment of the covenant that faith reached its culmination. However, we are experiencing an ongoing perfecting of faith in our lives presently. When we look at the bigger picture of Hebrews, we can understand that the faith authored by Christ is not only relevant to individuals but is also a faith that has a generational impact.

Each generation has its own way of discovering and experiencing God. Over the course of his life, Isaac was able to cultivate important virtues like obedience, wisdom, and humility. When Isaac was first acquainted with the God of his father Abraham, it was through his own journey that he came to experience Him on a personal level.

Reflection Questions:

1. Have you ever felt alone on your journey of faith?

2. How does it feel knowing that you and your personal journey are part of a larger, intergenerational plan?