Today’s Reading: Genesis 15:5-21
Today’s Verse: And it came to pass, that, when the sun went down, and it was dark, behold a smoking furnace, and a burning lamp that passed between those pieces. Genesis 15:17 KJV
Making a promise.
It means we may or may not do something.
In the Bible, a promise is a binding declaration by God or a person. It outlines something that will be done or given.
These promises are often linked to a pledge. They are viewed as sacred and dependable, especially when God makes it.
They can be unconditional. Meaning God will fulfill them regardless of human actions.
They can be conditional. Meaning it requires specific actions or responses from the receiver.
In this passage Abram had questions regarding God’s promises.
He asked God how he could be sure His promises would come to pass.
In turn, God made a promise to him.
In a ceremony animals were sacrificed. They were cut in half. Their parts were then arranged in two rows on the ground. Forming an aisle between them.
As the king walked between the halves, with a burning torch. He was declaring to all that he would keep the promise made. Knowing that if he did not, he would be slain in the same way.
So, when the burning torch passed through the pieces of the sacrifice and remained lit, Abram knew that God was declaring that He would keep His promise.
God had pledged to be the King over Israel while Israel in turn would be the vessel that was expected to be faithful to the bond between them.
As followers of Christ, God’s agreement with Abram and His assurance of its completion extends to us also.
It will come “to pass, that, when the sun went down, and it was dark, behold a smoking furnace, and a burning lamp that passed between those pieces” will be seen (Genesis 15:17 KJV).
We will know that He is King over our lives.
That is why Paul has referred to us as sons of Abraham in his New Testament writings (Romans 4:11-18, Galatians 4:29 KJV).
When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, God becomes the Keeper in our lives. And as we walk by faith (John 10:28-29).
God is the Keeper of our salvation.
With renewed confidence in Him, we show that we trust Him with our lives.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Father, just like Abraham, we have times of struggle when it comes to our faith in You. And just like him we need a sign that You are with us. That we can stand on Your promises. The more we read the Word, the more we know that You will never fail us. That You will never forsake us. Your Word will never pass away. Our salvation is guaranteed when we acknowledge that You are holding us. Thank You for always renewing our confidence. We do trust You with our lives.
In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen