Genesis 14—15: Tests of Faith
IF YOU WANT your faith to increase, don't be surprised or disheartened over difficulties which demand faith. The muscles of faith grow strong through training and testing that is sometimes painful. Abram continues to learn this lesson after parting from his nephew Lot. In this study we see Abram's trials and the resources God provides to help him meet the challenges and persevere.
Warming Up to God
What do you think really makes your faith grow? Write down any specific events in your life that God has used to increase your faith.
Read Genesis 14—15. »
Discovering the Word
- What political and military situation is described in 14:1-4, and how is it similar to today?
- Since Abram lived in tents away from the cities, his people were not involved in this military campaign. When he learns of Lot's capture, what strategy does Abram devise (14:13-16)?
- Who is Melchizedek, and what does he do (14:18-20)?
- What is Abram's main problem in chapter 15, and how does he propose to solve it (15:2-3)?
- How would God's message to Abram at this point renew his confidence (15:1, 4, 5)?
- Genesis 15:6 is the first time we read that Abram believes the Lord. Explain in your own words what it means that his faith is credited to him as righteousness.
Applying the Word
- What evidence do you find of Abram's growing confidence in God?
- If you have ever had to wait a long time for God to fulfill a promise, what did you learn in the process about yourself, the Lord and his way of working with you?
Responding in Prayer
Thank Jesus for his death, which enables our belief to be credited as righteousness in God's eyes.
For Further Study
Genesis 12-50 (ACCS) Ed. by Mark Sheridan