We often talk about how different things are now when compared to an earlier time. This is usually done in terms of devices (“Why, we didn’t even know what a cell phone was when we were young!”) or rules (“My mother made me be home from a date by 9:00 P.M.”) or some other comparative matter we feel worth noting.
Yes, things change. But, some don ’t. Here is one: trust in God and obedience to His will.
Centuries ago, God told Abram to leave his country, his family, and his father ’s house (Gen. 12:1). It was more than a demand. God would bless Abram if he trusted enough to obey. He would show Abram a land, make him into a great nation, bless him, make his name great, and bless those who blessed him (Gen. 12:1b -3).
Abram trusted and obeyed. Gen. 12:4 puts it in simple words: “So Abram departed as the Lord had spoken to him . . .” (Gen. 12:5). The text does not tell us about any conversation with Sarai, his relatives, or anyone else concerning the pros and cons of obeying God ’s command.
Abram trusted and obeyed. That is all we need to know.
Centuries later, the same unchanging principle relates to us. God has called us from the darkness of sin into his marvelous light (I Pet. 2:9). Because we trusted and obeyed, we have obtained mercy (I Pet. 2:10).
We remember that unchanging principle daily. God wants us to take Him at His word and obey Him. Without complaint. Without questioning. Without delay.
Here is something else that is unchanging: God knew what was best for Abraham. He knows what is best for us. If we trust Him and obey Him, we will experience a happy and fulfilled life, because He will be with us. The song is correct, “He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey. ”
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