Genesis 12—13: Following God into the Unknown
SUPPOSE GOD CALLED you to leave all that is familiar—your home, family, friends—and follow him into another part of the country or world with a radically different lifestyle. How would you feel as you said goodbye and moved out into the unknown? In this study we see how Abram responds to such a call and how his faith matures.
Warming Up to God
Free your hands of books or pencils and fold them across your lap. Close your eyes and think of the characteristics of God. Let God draw near to you in these quiet moments.
Read Genesis 12—13. »
Discovering the Word
- What command and promise does the Lord give to Abram (12:1-3)?
- What additional promise and encouragement does God give to Abram as he arrives in Canaan (12:6-9)?
- How does Abram's scheming about himself and Sarai evidence a lack of faith (12:10-16)?
- Describe the problem which arises between Abram and Lot (13:1-7).
- Abram, as the older man, has the right to choose the best land. How does his action here demonstrate a greater confidence in God's promise to take care of him (13:8-13)?
- What renewed and expanded promises does the Lord give to Abram (13:14-17)?
Applying the Word
- Describe a time when you took matters into your own hands instead of trusting in God's faithfulness.
- How can Abram's experiences in chapters 12 and 13 encourage you to entrust your needs more fully to God?
Responding in Prayer
Thank God for his faithfulness in keeping promises, and ask him to increase your faith while you wait to see your requests come to fruition.
For Further Study
The Message of Genesis 12-50 by Joyce G. Baldwin