Abraham came from pretty humble beginnings. He was the son of an idol maker, living an ordinary life, with the same frailties and weaknesses as you and I. This all changed, however, beginning in Genesis 12.
At age 75, he was called by God to move his family to a new, and unfamiliar land. This was quite a leap of faith, but Abraham obediently did as he was told (Hebrews 11:8). Yes, in this case, he trusted God. But, as we shall see, he was far from perfect.
He was prone to making mistakes, and having lapses of faith, too. Genesis 12 thru 22, contains several examples of Abraham acting first in faith then fear, being loyal and courageous, yet not fully trusting God. It's true, that here was a man of great faith, yet as imperfect as we are.
Like Abraham, we discover that one can't live by faith all at once. It's just not natural with us. This is something that definitely involves a learning curve. We're going to make mistakes, but they don't necessarily keep us from God. You'll find that God is quite patient, compassionate, and merciful.
Life is a series of ups and downs, successes and failures, tests and trials. In other words, we will encounter certain challenges along the way. Without a doubt, our faith will be tested. But if we trust God, He will guide us through to the very end.
There's no shame in being imperfect. Many of us put needless pressure on ourselves to "be perfect." Some, to the point of turning away from Him altogether. God doesn't expect perfection from us. He only wants us to trust in Him; and have faith in Him. He will take care of the rest.
Let God encourage you, not only during times of trials but everyday. In fact, we can all be encouraged by Abraham and other biblical examples. As they have shown us; for those who do follow God, have faith in Him, and trust Him; He will never leave you, or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).
The worst thing we can do to ourselves is to "give up" because we "mess up." If you fall, do as Abraham did. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and move on. God could have turned His back on Abraham at any time. But, He didn't. God never did that to Abraham, and He would never do that to you!
Scripture: Proverbs 30:5; Philippians 4:13; Psalm 55:22; 1 John 2:17; Jeremiah 33:3
Prayer: Dear Lord, I am far from perfect, but You know that; and accept me as I am. You do not judge me on my weaknessess, and frailties; of which I have plenty. I will continue to trust and love You for the rest of my life. Amen
Have a blessed day!
Brynn
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