Saturday, May 02, 2009

The Blessings of a God-Glorifying Reputation

"Now the LORD said to Abram, 'Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing'" (Genesis 12:1-2, English Standard Version).

While the builders of the tower of Babel (Genesis 11) sought to make a name for themselves, Abram was simply living an ordinary life.

Apparently driven by pride and insecurity, they sought recognition in their achievements. Abram was not looking for recognition.

The builders achieved notoriety. God gave Abram a great name, a great reputation.

God did not give Abram a great name just to bless Abram. He gave Abram a great name so that he would be a blessing to others. God wanted other people to see his smile on Abram's life. He wanted them to see his work in the life of a man of faith. He wanted people to notice the difference he had made in Abram's life. He wanted them to share in Abram's faith so that they could be blessed, too.

"Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham...So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith" (Galatians 3:7, 9, ESV).

3 comments:

Mike said...

I like the fact that Abram was just living an ordinary life. GOD picks that which is ordinary. Hmmmm. Now that is something special.

Anonymous said...

Genesis 12:3
3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.
(NIV)

Amen! :)

Terry Laudett said...

Good comments, guys! Thanks.