Origins: The Promise (Genesis 12–25)Sample

By Pastor Jeff Seward

“And it came to pass at that time that Abimelech and Phichol, the commander of his army, spoke to Abraham, saying, ‘God is with you in all that you do. Now, therefore, swear to me by God that you will not deal falsely with me, with my offspring, or my posterity; but that according to the kindness that I have done to you, you will do to me and to the land in which you have dwelt.’ And Abraham said, ‘I will swear.’” Genesis 21:22-24 (NKJV)

Proverbs 22:1 (ESV) says, “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.”

Each of us has a reputation. People observe your life every day. At home, in your neighborhood, and at your workplace. Consider this: When your name is spoken of in the presence of others, what might they say? When someone’s name is brought up in conversation, it carries either a sense of respect and honor or of dislike and dishonor. For example, when you hear the names Billy Graham or Adolph Hitler, what are your first thoughts of their respective reputations? 

Abraham had a good name. God told him that he would be a blessing (Genesis 12). He is highly honored in Scripture and by Christians and Jews to this day. He made serious mistakes that could have ended tragically; yet God helped and protected him, and he turned from his sin.

Abraham’s name and reputation had even gained him approval in the presence of his unsaved neighbor. But what made Abraham so great? What stood out about him and made him a man of good reputation? Abimelech tells us: “God is with you in all that you do.” When people were around Abraham, they could feel the presence of the Lord. He walked faithfully and in obedience, he lived according to the guidance and direction of God, and he exhibited great humility; all because God was with him. 

How does your reputation speak to others? Do the people you work with, your family, or your neighbors see the glory of the Lord in you? Do they see a person who is Christlike and humble or full of self? Would they say, like Abimelech, God is “with you in all you do”?

As believers, our name, our reputation, our legacy should be defined by this powerful declaration, “God is with you in all that you do.” As ministers of reconciliation, as ambassadors for Christ, His presence within us should be easily seen and identified. Our words, actions, habits, and lifestyle should make Him known to others. The people we interact with should be able to “see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 NKJV). 

DIG: Read Acts 6:3. Stephen had a good reputation. What would people say about your reputation?

DISCOVER: How does the Lord reveal His presence to you? Read Isaiah 41:10 and Zephaniah 3:17.

DO: Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth . . . You are the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14 NKJV). The world desperately needs your godly example and influence.