April 20, 2015

Read: Genesis 12:1-3

Recently I attended a meeting where a group of young men shared their testimony of their calling to full-time ministry. It was interesting to hear how varied their testimonies were. Some revealed that from a very early age, God began to speak to their young hearts.  Some were like Paul and responded to a more dramatic calling. There seemed to be a common thread in each of their testimonies - an abiding faith to trust God step-by-step. 
 
These verses in the 12th chapter of Genesis tells us of the dramatic call of Abraham. The 11th chapter of Hebrews even makes him a primary example of faith. At first we are made aware of all the sacrifices he would have to make - leaving his homeland, leaving his family and friends. Yet, blindly he follows God’s calling. But as we read on, we are amazed at God’s promises to him, if by faith he obeys God’s orders. 
 
Most missionaries experience a similar calling as Abraham when they, too, give up their homeland, friends and families, and by faith, follow the Lord in blind obedience. Each of them would eagerly say that what sacrifices they made, pales in comparison with the overwhelming blessings they received. 
 
God will not call all of us to leave the comforts of our homeland. But for us, perhaps it’s the neighbor across the street, the “bag-boy” at the grocery store, the waitress at our favorite restaurant.

Pray: 

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.  

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.  

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.  

Supplication: Petition God to help you be a faithful steward of your time, talents, possessions, and relationships.  Offer prayers concerning your activities for this day and any special concerns you have.  Intercede for your local, state, and national governments.  Pray for spiritual revival in the nation and offer prayers regarding any current events and concerns.