Following the Trail of God's Promises: The 40-Day ChallengeSample

12. The Promise of Offspring

Abraham, then still called Abram, was a God-fearing and God-obeying man. In today's concept of human lifespan he was very old, maybe 80-90 years. He was blessed with great wealth in cattle, silver and gold. Everything did not always go smoothly, but obedience to God brought him a favorable way out of all situations. God addresses Abraham in an apparition during which Abraham expresses his disappointment at his lack of offspring. But God promises to fulfill that need, even though it sounds impossible considering his and Sara's age. “Abram believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness.” This was followed by the making of a covenant between the two.

I think about the blessings and well being - mine and those of my family. About everything I have and receive, that I'm not really sure I deserve. About how the Lord speaks to me, often and in different ways. About the miracles that happen in my life.

Am I thankful enough for the untold abundance, peace and prosperity? For a warm home and family? Am I listening to what God is telling me and am I responding to His revelations? Am I keeping my faith fresh by seeing the miracles He performs?

Abraham wanted offspring, but I'm not sure he was aware of how powerful the answer to his prayer would be. What do we want? Even if we do know, we can't even imagine how much more God can make of it!