Monday, January 9, 2012

SOAP 01/09/2012; Genesis 24:14,21

Today's reading: Genesis 23,24; Luke 9

S)"14 'now may it be that the girl to whom I say, "Please let down your jar so that I may drink," and who answers, "Drink, and I will water your camels also"—may she be the one whom You have appointed for Your servant Isaac; and by this I will know that You have shown lovingkindness to my master.'
21 Meanwhile, the man was gazing at her in silence, to know whether the LORD had made his journey successful or not."

Genesis 24:14,21 (NASB)

O) So, between vv. 14 and 21, Abraham's servant has the exact exchange that he himself described/prayed, in very great detail, to God. Even still, seeing it fulfilled exactly and immediately, in verse 21 we see him pause. This is a very, very big moment, big decision, and he wants to be sure he's getting it exactly right.

A) This was a big decision he had to make for some one else. In a similar way, as the king of my household, I have to make very heavy decisions for my family. As in this story, I think it's okay to ask God for specific things (I prayed several things for my wife to be, and God gifted her/me with them). I don't think that's the same thing as "testing" God or "demanding" from God. As I face difficult decisions, I will challenge my faith to ask God for specific signs and if/when I see them, I will deliberate and carefully consider whether or not He is showing me that sign. Who knows? Maybe God will reveal to me my future daughter-in-law...

P) Father, I commit to seeking Your decision on big, important matters, but also on small ones, too. Holy Spirit, direct me as I search for the will of God. You can speak to me in many ways, Lord, so give me the faith to explore all of the Biblical ways You've spoken to Your people throughout history. Help me approach situations with wisdom, always seeking Your will, to discover the answers You intend. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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