The Thread: Part IIEgzanp

Abram becomes Abraham

Abram and Sarai made a major mistake when they insisted on "helping" God fulfill his promise. They caused a lot of pain to their family, community, and future generations. However, God is faithful even when we are not, and he changed Abram's name to Abraham to reflect the promises and destiny he originally had for Abraham. Instead of being Abram ("Father is Exalted"), he would now be Abraham ("Father of a multitude").

We replayed the Genesis overview video again today because, at minute 4:08, God adds a layer to his covenant with Abram. God asks Abraham to take all of the men of his family and circumcise them. The circumcision symbolizes their submission and identification with God to be a people belonging to him.

Abraham accepted the new destiny that God gave him. He allowed God to renew him and took the painful challenge that came with it. God is a redeemer of shameful acts, and Abraham took the path of humility and accepted God's forgiveness and redemption.

Today, remember that shame can be either a roadblock keeping us from God or a pathway toward him. The choice is yours; by the grace of Jesus, humble yourself and return to his open arms.

Question: What is one way God is calling you to move past your shame/mistakes to receive his redemption?

Prayer: We all need the renewing power of God to be active in our lives. Today, ask God where he wants to remove shame and exchange it for his promises in your life.