ODJ: the sustaining Word

February 13, 2014 

READ: Genesis 26:22-24 

“I am the God of your father, Abraham,” he said. “Do not be afraid, for I am with you and will bless you. I will multiply your descendants, and they will become a great nation” (v.24).

Nine weeks into my first pregnancy I started bleeding. The fear of losing our baby gripped my heart so tightly that I could barely breathe. That night, as I frantically searched the Scriptures to find some comfort, I opened my Bible to Genesis 26:24 (MSG): “That very night God appeared to him and said, I am the God of Abraham your father; don’t fear a thing because I’m with you. I’ll bless you and make your children flourish”. These few words calmed my panicked heart, and I slept peacefully.

An emergency scan on the following morning confirmed that my pregnancy was progressing well. But there was one surprise revelation—I wasn’t carrying one child, but two! Later I gave birth to a twin boy and girl. Talk about an abundant blessing!

In Genesis 22:1-19 we read that God tested Abraham by telling him to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. When Isaac asked his father where the lamb was for the burnt offering, Abraham answered, “God will provide a sheep for the burnt offering, my son” (v.8). And then “they both walked on together”.

Isaac trusted the word of his father, just as Abraham trusted the word of his faithful God. Abraham knew the Lord would provide even in a seemingly hopeless, desperate situation.

These days, whenever we’re faced with a challenge in our family, I go back to Genesis 26:24. It stands firm in my heart as a promise from God that can be trusted. Reacting emotionally to the challenges of life may leave us exhausted, fearful and vulnerable. Instead let’s choose to cling to God’s unchanging Word and rest in His faithful promises. Remember these words from Him: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you and will bless you”. —Ruth O’Reilly-Smith