Jan 6th | Genesis 12

       Genesis chapter 12 is a turning point in the book. Through the first 11 chapters we have seen many different people and events. But in chapter 12 God puts all His focus on one family. Chapter 12 is almost shocking because there is no build up to God choosing to bless Abram. You would think we would find some act of valor or dedication on Abram’s part but God chose Abram and decided to bless him by grace alone. 

What is the blessing? 

       God promised to make Abram a great nation. He wouldn’t be just another name in a list but through him, there would be a great group of people. This is a shocking blessing, because Abram is 75 years old and childless when he received this blessing. I’m sure Abram was scratching his head at how this would work but what a great blessing that was promised to him! And God wasn’t done. 

       God promised to bless those who blessed Abram and to curse those who dishonored Abram. God was telling Abram, “I’ve got your back!” Isn’t it always good to have a friend who you know will always back you up no matter what? God was telling Abram that He would be with him and support him. And God still wasn’t done. 

       God promised that in Abram, all the families of the earth would be blessed. Not only was Abram going to be a great nation and God would be with him, but God promised that His blessings on all people would flow through Abram and this nation. 

The Blessing is Unconditional

       These blessings were made with no conditions. Did you catch that? He doesn’t say, “IF” you do this “THEN” I will bless you. No, God simply gives these promises to Abram. They are made by God and Abram just gets to receive those blessings. 

       This promise to Abram was unconditional but so is the promise of salvation to anyone who would believe in Christ. You can be adopted into God’s family, have your sins forgiven, and secure an eternal dwelling in Heaven with God forever. And what are the conditions? Just receive the blessing by faith.

Will You See God’s Blessings as Better?

       God told Abram to go from his country to a new land so that he could bless him. After Abram hears those blessings it is no wonder that he leaves to receive those blessings! But what if Abram would have said, “No thanks. I’m good.” We would have called him crazy right? But isn’t this was we do to God? He offers us blessings and we say, “No thanks, I would rather stay in my sin than go receive those great treasures.” 

       It reminds me of the parable of the hidden treasure. Matthew 13:44 says, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” 

       God has offered the greatest treasure to you, His presence and blessings. He is worthy of selling all we have to leave and partake of those blessings. Do you recognize that today? What do you see as more beautiful than God and His blessings today? How might you live differently knowing that He offers you His blessings unconditionally?