The Thread: Part IISample

God's Covenant with Abram and You

After Abram's recent difficulties and at a time of worry about the future, God visited Abram in one of the most intimate Old Testament encounters. He came to bring some assurance: he promised that Abram (an older man then) would have a son and inherit the land currently inhabited by warring enemies.

Both promises seemed absurd in the natural—so much so that Abram asked, "How can I know these things will happen?" In answer, God illustrated his determination and faithfulness by entering into a covenant agreement that Abram's culture would understand. The Lord bound himself to his promises by appearing to Abram as a smoking oven and burning torch and passing between the pieces of animals cut in half.

Through these actions, God told Abram, "If I don't keep My part of the bargain, then let me be like these accursed animals cut in two." However, because God performed the ritual by himself, he took full responsibility to fulfill the covenant—and bear the consequences if either party broke the covenant. God would keep his promises regardless of Abram's ability to uphold the covenant.

This passage is rich with examples of God's character! All the symbolism in the covenant is a beautiful picture of how faithful God is to his chosen. We all encounter opportunities to doubt; God is encouraging you today that he will always be faithful.

Question: Do you have unanswered prayers or struggle to believe God’s promises? How does God's incredible demonstration to Abram speak to you?

Prayer: Ask God for a fresh revelation of his faithfulness, and lift those unanswered prayer needs with confidence in God's desire to move on your behalf.