In previous chapters, we may have been tempted to wonder, “Why has God stuck with Abraham for so long?” Commentators and scholars have wondered why the Bible is so brutally honest about the struggles of this prominent patriarch. I had mentioned in the previous chapters of how some were quick to defend Abraham and justify his failures. Finally, in Genesis 21, we read of God’s fulfilled promise to Abraham and Sarah.
If we look at the big picture, we see a flawed man who couldn’t hold up his end of the deal. God had expectations. Abraham met some of them. It was by faith he left behind everything and traveled into new land to trust God. But we also read he began to struggle with fear. His faith wavered and he made terrible decisions that damaged his witness and character. Yet, even after all that, God was faithful to what He promised. Why?
The Bible does this often. Most character studies in Scripture involve humanity wrestling with understanding and trusting God. Is not the same true for us? Was God faithful to Abraham because Abraham was faithful to God? Not really. The same is true for much of the Old and New Testaments. The Bible is clear that the men and women who were called by God may have made some miraculous decisions of faith, but they also failed much of the time. They questioned God and tried to take control of their situations in their own strength. Yet, God was still faithful.
Let that sink in for a moment.
God is not faithful because we have been obedient. He is faithful so we can walk in obedience.
We can’t know what obedience looks like without experiencing God’s love. We can’t fully understand a love relationship with God without grace. We can’t live out our calling without His power.
It’s not about us. It’s about Him.
Abraham’s story is not unique. His journey has taught him that his power is unfaithful and God’s power is always faithful. We say we will follow and we don’t. God says He will provide and He does. We say we love Him and we prove otherwise. He says He loves us and then sends Jesus to the cross. Which is greater… my love for God or His love for me? If we truly see God’s character, how can we not be changed forever?