The Promised Land
9-7-04

In the message "The Search" we saw how searching for God’s will is a natural step of Christian maturity. As we become more like Christ, we naturally desire to do only those things consistent with the will of our Heavenly Father. But we also saw that this can be a frustrating time as we search...and wait! But it’s a time where we learn more about trust, more about submitting our own desires to His will, and more about preparing to go when He calls.

Abraham was a man of great faith. He was chosen to begin the covenant relationship between God and man. Through Abraham’s son Isaac and his grandson Jacob, the nation of Israel was born. However, when God’s Word first introduces us to Abraham, he is already 75 years old and settled with his family in the land of Haran. Then, with absolutely no warning, God calls...

Genesis 12:1
"The Lord had said to Abraham, ’Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.’"

God wanted Abraham to move to the land of promise; "I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you" (Genesis 12:2). We’re not told that Abraham was searching for God’s will or even preparing for the call, but he was definitely ready. Abraham had no idea where he was going, how long he would be gone or how he was going to get to where God directed, but he trusted God’s promise and went.

It’s interesting to note there was no further discussion or clarification from God after the call was made - God gave direction, and Abraham obeyed; "So Abraham left, as the Lord had told him" (Genesis 12:4). Abraham may have left with a slight uncertainty in his decision - a slight hesitation in his step - but he had faith enough to trust and obey.

God has a promised land to which He’s calling us today. It’s a land where we find contentment in all situations (Philippians 4:12), rejoice in our trials (James 1:2), and give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18) because we KNOW God is working all things together for the good (Romans 8:28). It’s a land of united families where marriage vows represent an unbreakable covenant; a place where children honor their father and mother; and a land where parents lead their children by following Christ. Most of all, it’s a land where we love Him with ALL our heart in ALL we do, say and think!

He’s calling us to trust Him and follow where He leads. Sometimes His call is very specific - and we must diligently prepare to hear and obey this call - but often His call is simply to let go of our own understanding, search His Word for truth, and follow Him to the Promised Land.

Have A Great Day!