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Genesis 12:7 …So he built an altar there to the LORD.
The book of Genesis is one of the most studied books of the Bible. Often, it portrays the benefits of living a life dedicated to God, and the consequences of living apart from God. This is seen in two different stories back to back – the Tower of Babel in Chapter 11 and God’s calling of Abram in Chapter 12.
In Chapter 11, all of humankind sets out to “make a name for ourselves.” Making bricks and building a large tower to the heavens isn’t an issue. But when all people say, “Let’s make a name for ourselves,” God scatters them.
Then in Chapter 12, God speaks to a man named Abram and makes him a promise. How does Abram respond? “He built an altar there to the LORD, who had appeared to him.” One group of people builds a tower to make a name for themselves, while Abram constructs and altar to make great the name of God.
Today, followers of Jesus are regularly in need of making the same choice. Are you currently living to make your own name great, or are you living in such a way to make great the name of God?
READING & PRAYERS:
PSALM 115, ISAIAH 42:5-9 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Does your current life identify more with the people in Genesis 11 (e.g., “Let’s make a name for ourselves”) or Abram in Genesis 12 (e.g., “I want to make great the name of God”)?
DIGGING DEEPER: What changes might you need to make in your daily rhythms in order to more intentionally make great the name of God?
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I recognize that even though I don’t want to think I live in such a way to make my own name great, there are parts of my life in which I do want the recognition and the attaboys for some of my accomplishments. Continue to help me remember that the words I most need to hear don’t come from others, but are instead Your words — “Well done, good and faithful servant.” May I be a good and faithful servant to You today and everyday. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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