A Layman's Commentary On Genesis by James Demello - HTML preview

Genesis 15: Abram – Man of Doubt and Faith

Abram was concerned about his progeny – he was old and he had no heirs from his own body. So God appeared to him to promise a great line of descendants as well a land for them to live in that was currently occupied. He also prophesied about Abram’s children living in a “strange” land (Egypt) who would be judged accordingly for their mistreatment of the Israelite people.

Now the personal lesson I take away from this chapter is that Abraham was counted as righteous for his belief in God – YET – he then asks God – how will I know that you will fulfill your promise to me? I am so happy to hear Abram question God because I do the same thing constantly – I tell God I believe in Him with all my heart and I trust Him to take care of me – and then I wonder, “how will He take care of me?” I don’t question that God exists, I don’t question He will help me through the trials of life and answer my prayers but I often question if He will answer them in a particular way that I think is an appropriate response. I often forget who God is and that He knows the best solution and that I often ask for a rock when He wants to give me bread. But we have to believe He exists, that He cares for us and we have to ask. Thank you Abr(ah)am.