Tag: bible-study

Week 30 of the Devotional Series

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The Study of Genesis: Post Eighteen 

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our 18th devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 30 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next few weeks.

Focus: Genesis 44 

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 44 – “Running Over”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — Luke 6:38

“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”

Genesis Chapter 44

“Running Over”

(Read Genesis Chapter 44 First) 

After sharing a meal with his brothers, Joseph gives an unexpected instruction to the steward of his house:

He told him to fill their sacks, and not just enough to get by. Fill them as much as they can carry!

That’s generosity.

That’s love.

That’s forgiveness.

Joseph could have given them the bare minimum and said, “They don’t deserve abundance.”

But instead? He overfilled their bags.

And if I’m honest, sometimes I’m a careful giver. I’ll do something kind… but let it be the minimum so I’m not inconvenienced too much. I’ll help, but only if it fits within my schedule for that day.  

Joseph is showing us something different, and I want to learn to be more like this. Less self centered and more giving! 

He shows us a very generous heart.

It made me want to dig deeper into what the Bible has to say about giving…

  • A Cheerful, Willing Heart

2 Corinthians 9:7

“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”

Generosity isn’t meant to be driven by guilt or pressure even though sometimes it may feel that way. 

Paul says we are to give as we have purposed in our heart. That means it’s a settled, prayerful decision instead of impulsive, manipulated, or forced.

This doesn’t mean generosity will never make you feel stretched.

Often it costs us time and energy, and yes it may inconvenience our day.

But this stretching is what shapes us into a better christian. 

But there’s a difference between being stretched and being resentful.

God isn’t looking for giving that causes frustration or complaining on the inside. He delights in a willing heart. A heart that says, “Lord, I want to reflect You in the things I do.”

You don’t have to feel like you have to say yes to everything.

It’s not about draining yourself to prove you care.

It’s about staying connected to the Source so that when you give, it flows from love. If you feel resentment when you are giving then stop and let the LORD tend to your heart first. Spend some time in his word, tell Him you’re doing this WITH him because you can’t pour out from overflow unless you’re connected to the source. .

  • Generosity Leads to Blessing

Proverbs 11:25

“The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.”

The word liberal here means blessing, gift, prosperity.

And that phrase “shall be made fat” doesn’t mean what we think in modern language. It means enriched, satisfied, thriving, made full.

A soul that blesses others becomes spiritually rich.

And I love the second half:

“He that watereth shall be watered also himself.”

The word water in this verse means to drench, saturate, refresh, satisfy, give abundantly.

That’s not the kind of giving that simply checks a box or feels like an obligation. It’s the kind that spills over from a heart that has already been filled.

It reminds me of Ephesians 3:20:

“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” 

And that’s how God gives to us. Over and above.

When I think about watering, I picture our garden. We use a hose, or sometimes the rain waters it. Either way, the water comes from a source.

If the hose isn’t connected, then nothing flows out.

The same is true spiritually.

If we’re not connected to the Source, to God, then we cannot water anyone else. Without Him, we’ll be bone dry.

But here’s the promise:

The one who waters will himself be refreshed and satisfied. 

It’s reciprocal.

God replenishes those who pour out.

  • Living Open-Handed

Luke 6:38

“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”

How do we “get?” We give! 

  • Generosity Reflects God’s Character

James 1:17

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of Lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”

We give because He first gave to us.

And there’s so much more to give than just give money.

We can give:

• A listening ear

• Godly counsel

• Patience

• Prayer

• Time

• Encouragement

• A seat at our table

2 Corinthians 8:12

“For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”

What you have to give is not measured or weighted to see if it’s acceptable or good enough. God looks at the willingness of the heart. 

Let’s get back to Joseph’s story in Genesis 

…Joseph isn’t finished.

He tells the steward to place his silver cup in Benjamin’s sack.

They barely leave the city before the steward catches up to them and they’re accused of stealing it.

And I couldn’t help but wonder…

Is Joseph testing them?

Years ago, they left him in a hole and walked away.

Now the question is:

Will they repeat history and abandon Benjamin? 

Or will they stand together as family?

When they were accused or stealing the cup, they passionately deny it. They even say:

If it’s found with one of us, let him die and the rest of us will all be servants.

That statement alone shows something in them has changed because they are willing to suffer together.

When the cup is found in Benjamin’s sack, they tear their clothes, which is a sign of grief, and they all return to Joseph’s house. 

Joseph explains that only Benjamin must stay for stealing the cup and the rest are free to go back home. 

And here it is.

The moment of truth.

Will they leave him?

Judah steps forward and explains to Joseph their father’s grief. He explains how losing one son nearly destroyed him. He begs Joseph to let him take Benjamin’s place.

“I pray thee… let thy servant abide instead of the lad.”

What a picture.

Judah offers himself as a substitute.

For his father’s sake.

Out of love.

His heart has surely changed! 

And can you see it?

This is a picture of Christ.

A man stepping forward.

Offering himself in place of another.

For the sake of the Father.

It really made me think that before redemption could come, their hearts had to soften.

Conviction came first.

Then humility.

Then sacrifice.

God changed their hearts before He restored their family.

That’s how He works with us too.

He convicts us.

He softens us.

Then He redeems us.

Real-Life Reflection:

Sometimes God allows a test to reveal what He has already changed in us.

Joseph was trying to reveal whether they were different men.

And maybe God does that in our lives too.

To show growth.

Journaling Prompts

• Am I giving generously, or cautiously?

• Am I connected to the Source or trying to pour from empty?

• Where might God be testing my growth?

• Would I step forward for someone else the way Judah did?

• Is there someone I need to extend generosity toward?

Maybe for you this week, generosity isn’t about money.

Maybe it’s:

• Forgiveness.

• Time.

• Compassion.

• A second chance.

• A seat at your table.

Joseph filled their sacks beyond what they deserved.

And God does the same for us.

And we can do that for others!

Week 28 of the Devotional Series

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The Study of Genesis: Post Sixteen 

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our 16th devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 28 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next few weeks.

Focus: Genesis 41 

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 41 – “Prepared for the Famine”

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.”   Genesis 41:16

Genesis Chapter 41 – 

“Prepared for the Famine”

(Read Genesis Chapter 41 First) 

We left off in our last devotion with Joseph interpreting dreams for the king’s butler and baker while he was still in prison. His interpretations came true, and he asked the butler to remember him when he was restored to his position… but he didn’t.

Fast-forward two years.

Genesis 41 opens with Pharaoh having a dream that he knew meant something. He saw seven beautiful, healthy cows come up out of the river and graze in a meadow. Then seven skinny, sickly, almost frightening cows came up after them and began to eat the healthy ones. Pharaoh woke up, unsettled, but went back to sleep.

Then he dreamed again.

This time it was seven full, good ears of corn swallowed up by seven thin, withered ones. Now he knew that he must figure out what the dreams meant. The Bible says his spirit was troubled. So Pharaoh called for all the magicians and wise men of Egypt, but none of them could interpret the dreams.

I want to pause right here and say this: it matters who you seek counsel from.

The men who “specialized” in dreams had no answers, but an insignificant prisoner who trusted God completely would soon have exactly the answers Pharaoh needed.

That’s when the butler finally remembered Joseph.

He told Pharaoh about the young Hebrew man in prison who had correctly interpreted both his dream and the baker’s. Pharaoh immediately sent for Joseph. After a shave, a bath, and a change of clothes, Joseph stood before the most powerful man in Egypt.

Pharaoh said, “I have dreamed a dream, and there is none that can interpret it: and I have heard say of thee, that thou canst understand a dream to interpret it.”

Joseph’s response is one of my favorite lines in Scripture:

“It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.”

In other words…it’s not me, it’s God. I love this response so much. I want to be quick to give God credit just like Joseph did.

Pharaoh told him the dreams, adding one detail we hadn’t heard before…even after the skinny cows ate the healthy ones, they were still just as thin.

Without hesitation, Joseph gave the interpretation:

God was showing Pharaoh what He was about to do.

Seven years of great abundance were coming… followed by seven years of severe famine. The famine would be so great that people would forget the years of plenty. God repeated the dream twice because the matter was settled and would come to pass quickly.

Then Joseph offered Pharaoh a plan. He advised him to appoint a wise and discreet man to oversee the land, collect one-fifth of the harvest during the years of plenty, and store it for the famine to come.

I couldn’t help but notice what Joseph didn’t say. He didn’t try to promote himself. He didn’t push to be hired for the position. He spoke with humility and wisdom.

But Pharaoh and his servants recognized the Spirit of God in him.

Pharaoh said there was no one as wise and discerning as Joseph. He placed his ring on Joseph’s hand, clothed him in fine linen, put a gold chain around his neck, and made him ruler over all Egypt.

Joseph was thirty years old.

During the seven years of abundance, the land produced in great measure, and Joseph faithfully stored the grain. Before the famine came, he and his wife had two sons.

He named the first Manasseh, which means, “For God hath made me forget all my toil, and all my father’s house.”

And the second they named Ephraim, which means, “For God hath caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.”

What a testimony!

Even after betrayal, slavery, prison, and years of waiting… Joseph allowed God to heal his heart and make him fruitful again.

Then the famine came, just as God had said. It covered all the land. But Egypt had food.

And when the people became famished, Pharaoh told them, “Go unto Joseph; what he saith to you, do.” Joseph opened the storehouses and sold grain, not only to Egypt, but to the nations around them.

Because one man listened to God and prepared, millions lived.

Where there is preparation, the people flourish.

Let’s look at some Scripture on Preparation: 

Proverbs 29:18

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

Proverbs 21:5

The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.

Proverbs 16:3

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

Proverbs 24:3

Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established:

Psalm 112:5

A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.

Proverbs 24:27

Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.

Lessons on Preparedness from Joseph:

1. Prepare in the “fat years,” not the famine

Genesis 41:29–36

Joseph didn’t wait for trouble to start planning.

What are our seasons of plenty?

• good health

• steady income

• strong faith

• peace in our homes

Build habits before crisis:

• savings

• prayer life

• Bible knowledge

• healthy relationships

2. Spiritual preparedness (oil in the lamp)

Pair this chapter with:

• Matthew 25:1–13 (the wise and foolish virgins)

• Amos 4:12 – “Prepare to meet thy God”

Ask yourself:

• Am I storing God’s Word in my heart?

• Do I pray only in emergencies or daily?

3. Emotional & relational preparedness

Joseph had already:

• learned forgiveness

• endured betrayal

• remained faithful in private

So when a leadership opportunity came, his character was ready.

What should we be storing up?

• patience

• humility

• integrity

• self-control

5. Prepared to help others

Joseph’s preparation helped to save Egypt, other nations, and we will soon see that it reunited his family.

Who benefits when we are prepared?

• our children

• our church

• the people God sends into our lives

God may be filling your storehouse so you can become someone else’s help in their time of need. 

Remember…“The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness…” (Proverbs 21:5)

Forgotten by Man, Remembered by God

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Week 27 of the Devotional Series

The Study of Genesis: Post Fifteen

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our 15th devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 27 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next few weeks.

Focus: Genesis 38 – 40

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 38 – “Sin, Consequences, and Repentance”

Chapter 39 – “The Lord was With Joseph”

Chapter 40 – “The Butler and the Baker”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” – Hebrews 6:10

Genesis Chapter 38

“Sin, Consequences, and Repentance”

(Read Genesis Chapter 38 First) 

Genesis 38 is one of those chapters we don’t naturally gravitate toward. It’s uncomfortable, full of poor choices, broken promises, and selfishness. But we can still learn a lot of lessons from this chapter. We will see that God can still bring redemption out of human failure.

We left Joseph being sold into Egypt by his own brothers. One of those brothers was Judah. He’s the one who suggested selling Joseph instead of killing him. Around that same time, Judah walked away from his family and settled among the Canaanites. He married a Canaanite woman, started a family, and drifted even farther from the heritage he had been given. We can see how one compromise led to another. We can experience the same in our relationship with God…distance from God rarely happens all at once, it usually happens step by step.

Judah’s first son, Er, was wicked and died under God’s judgment. His second son, Onan, refused the responsibility God had designed to protect Tamar, his brother’s widow. Long before it was written into the Law, God’s heart was already clear: “If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband’s brother shall go in unto her… that the firstborn may succeed in the name of his brother which is dead” (Deuteronomy 25:5–6).  But Onan wanted the pleasure and benefit  without the sacrifice or burden, and God took his life too. So Tamar experienced years of injustice. Judah promised her his third son, Shelah, but he never kept that promise. He let time pass, allowed her wait until his son was old enough to marry, let her grow older, and when the time came, he left her without a family or future.

Tamar’s response was bitter and sinful. She was deceiving and that is never justified. When Judah finally realized the truth, that he himself was the father of her child, his words were surprising… “She hath been more righteous than I.” She was not innocent, but he felt she was less guilty than him since he withheld what was right and allowed sin to grow in her heart because of his neglect. 

And Scripture tells us, “he knew her again no more.” It shows that Judah’s repentance was not just words said because he was embarrassed. This is the beginning of a different Judah. We will see in the chapters ahead that he’s the one who will later offer himself in Benjamin’s place, and he’s the one whose line will carry the promise forward.

Next, we read about Judah and Tamar’s twins. One hand reaches out first, and the midwife marked his finger with a scarlet thread. But the other breaks through and is born first. His name is Pharez, which means “the breach, the breakthrough.” From this broken chapter, full of sin and pain comes the family line of King David… and eventually, Jesus.

God did not excuse the sin in this chapter. But He did not abandon the people in it either. So if you have a sinful or painful situation going on in your life, God can work through it too. 

Journaling Questions

  1. Are there areas where I’ve slowly drifted instead of deliberately walked away?
  2. Have I ever chosen convenience over responsibility, even knowing better?
  3. Is there a promise, apology, or responsibility I’ve put off that God is asking me to face?
  4. What would true repentance look like for me? Not just feeling sorry, but changing direction?
  5. Where do I need to trust that God can still bring good, even from chapters I wish weren’t written?

________________________________________________________________

Genesis Chapter 39

“The Lord was With Joseph”

(Read Genesis Chapter 39 First) 

In the last chapter, Joseph’s story was paused while we studied the difficult account of his brother Judah. Now Genesis 39 brings us right back to Joseph. We left off with him being sold into Egypt and placed in the house of Potiphar, captain of Pharaoh’s guard.

One sentence stands out over and over in this chapter:

“The LORD was with Joseph.”

Because the Lord was with him, Joseph prospered. He was shown mercy. He was given favor.

This isn’t something only Joseph could experience. We can pray for the Lord to be with us too.

Verse 3 tells us something powerful. Other people could see that the Lord was with Joseph. They could see that God made everything he touched prosper. When God’s hand is on someone’s life, it doesn’t stay hidden for long.

Scripture tells us:

“For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him…” (2 Chronicles 16:9)

God loves to honor those who honor Him.

What stands out to me most in this chapter is Joseph’s character.

He had every reason to be bitter. He had been betrayed by his own brothers, sold like property, carried into a foreign land, and made a servant. Yet the Bible says he served.

Being a willing servant is a picture of humility and love. If we are willing to serve people faithfully, we are showing that we are willing to serve God faithfully too.

“By love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)

Scripture also tells us Joseph was “goodly and well favoured,” meaning he was handsome. That explains why Potiphar’s wife was drawn to him. When she tried repeatedly to tempt him, he refused. He spoke of trust. He spoke of loyalty. And most importantly, he said:

“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9)

That is integrity.

Joseph worked hard, stayed faithful, and honored God when no one would have blamed him for giving up. Potiphar noticed and he made Joseph overseer of everything he owned. One day Potiphar’s wife grabbed Joseph by his garment. He didn’t hesitate and consider sinning. He ran. Leaving his robe behind in her hands. That alone is a lesson. Joseph knew not to tiptoe around temptation. We are called to flee from it. “Flee also youthful lusts.” (2 Timothy 2:22)

Because she had his garment, she had what she needed to form a lie. She accused Joseph of trying to disgrace her.

Here is a hard truth many of us learn sooner or later:

When people cannot get you to do wrong, sometimes they will lie about you instead.

Joseph was punished for a sin he did not commit. Potiphar had him thrown into prison. But again, Scripture says: “The LORD was with Joseph.” God showed him mercy and gave him favor even in a prison cell.

That encourages me because it means we can be in situations that feel too low, too unfair, and we can even feel hopeless, but God’s favor can still reach us. “For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.” (Psalm 5:12)

The chapter closes with these simple words:

“And that which he did, the LORD made it to prosper.”

That is my prayer.

That wherever He places me… whatever season I’m in… whatever task is in front of me…

the Lord would be with me, and make it prosper.

Journaling Questions

  1. Where has God placed me to serve right now, even if it isn’t where I hoped to be?
  2. What does integrity look like in my daily choices when no one is watching?
  3. Are there situations I need to stop entertaining and start running from?
  4. Do others see evidence of God’s presence in how I live and work?

“The LORD was with Joseph.”
May that be true of us too.

________________________________________________________________

Genesis Chapter 40

“The Butler and the Baker”

(Read Genesis Chapter 40 First)

While Joseph is in prison, God is still using him.

One day Pharaoh’s chief butler and chief baker are thrown into the same prison. Joseph, who has already been made overseer, is serving them and looking after them. One morning he notices something…they look sad.

He asked them why they were sad and they tell him they both had dreams, but there’s no one to interpret them.

And I love Joseph’s response. “Do not interpretations belong to God?” In other words: I can’t do this on my own… but I know the One who can. Joseph doesn’t take credit, but instead he lifts God’s name first.

The butler tells his dream. A vine with three branches is in front of him, budding and producing grapes. He pressed them into Pharaoh’s cup. God gives Joseph the interpretation clearly and confidently:

In three days, you’ll get your job back.

Then Joseph tells the butler, “But think on me when it shall be well with thee, and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house: For indeed I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon.”

The baker hears the good news and wants his dream interpreted too. But this time the truth is hard. He dreamed of three baskets upon his head and birds eating from them. And Joseph doesn’t soften it. He tells him plainly…

In three days, you will be hung and the birds will eat your flesh.

And three days later, on Pharaoh’s birthday, everything happens exactly as God revealed to Joseph. The butler is restored and the baker is executed. Joseph was right. God was faithful. But the butler forgot Joseph. 

Sometimes God will use you and the people you helped will still forget you.

Sometimes you’ll be faithful and not given any credit. 

Sometimes you’ll do everything right and still stay in the ‘prison’ longer than you should.

But we can learn this from Joseph…

Your calling is not dependent on people giving you credit. 

Your story doesn’t have to be read or noticed for God to be using it. 

God remembered Joseph, even when the butler didn’t. 

Journaling Questions:

1. Where in my life do I feel forgotten or overlooked right now?

2. Am I still serving others well even when life feels unfair?

3. Do I give God credit first or only when things are going well?

4. Is there a hard truth God is asking me to speak in love?

5. What would it look like to trust God with my timing instead of trying to force my own?

Faithful Through Generations

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Week 26 of the Devotional Series 

The Study of Genesis: Post Fourteen

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our 14th devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 26 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next few weeks.

Focus: Genesis 35 – 37

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 35 – “Preparing Our Hearts to Meet with God”

Chapter 36 – “God is Faithful” 

Chapter 37 – “They Meant Evil” 

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive – Genesis 50:20 

Genesis Chapter 35

“Preparing Our Hearts to Meet with God”

(Read Genesis Chapter 35 First) 

After the dramatic and violent events surrounding Shechem, God speaks directly to Jacob and says:

“Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother.” (Genesis 35:1)

God calls us to seek Him and to worship Him. Bethel was a place of prayer and dedication for Jacob where he sought God. Just like Jacob had to stop, remove what didn’t belong, cleanse his heart, and intentionally prepare himself to meet with God…we have to do the same. 

1. Put Forth Effort to Seek God

Jacob told everyone in his household to put away foreign gods, cleanse themselves, and change their clothes before going to Bethel. This was intended to prepare their hearts.

Life application: Are there things in your life like habits, distractions, or sinful patterns that you need to lay aside before approaching God? Preparing our hearts is key to encountering Him fully. Sometimes it’s as simple as setting aside time, removing distractions, or confessing what’s holding us back.

2. Remember God’s Faithfulness

Jacob built an altar at Bethel because God had been with him before. He was with him in desperate moments, life-or-death situations, and in the promises He had given.

Life application: God’s presence isn’t only for difficult times. We can fall out of practice of spending time with Him, but He remains faithful daily. Keeping an altar in our lives can mean daily prayer, Bible study, intentional thankfulness…ways to remember His goodness and invite Him into our presence. 

3. Growth Shifts Our Focus to God Himself

Jacob’s altar names change: first Bethel (“House of God”), then El-bethel (“God of the House of God”). This shows spiritual maturity. Notice that his focus moved from a place to the Person of God.

Life application: Sometimes we worship routines instead of God Himself. True faith is about relationship: it’s about knowing Him personally. Ask yourself: Am I drawn to God Himself, or just the comforts and structures around my faith?

4. Acts of Worship as Remembrance

Jacob poured a drink offering and oil on a pillar of stone as a sign of worship, dedication, and remembrance.

Life application: Remembering God’s work in our lives keeps faith alive. You could journal answered prayers or create a personal habit of thanksgiving. Just something to celebrate and remember God’s faithfulness. I decorated a heart shaped bowl and when God answers a prayer I’ve been praying, I write it down on a little piece of paper, fold it up, and add it to the bowl. It’s a blessing watching the little papers add up. 

5. Life is Full of Joy and Sorrow, But God’s Hand Guides Us 

Rachel’s childbirth and death remind us that life’s hard and joyful moments are intertwined. She names her son Ben-oni, “Son of my sorrow,” but Jacob names him Benjamin, “Son of God’s right hand.” Jacob is making a declaration of trust and hope in God even though he’s experiencing deep pain.

Life application: God can take our sorrow and disappointment and turn them into purpose and hope. Even in our pain, His hand is guiding us closer to Him. 

6. Reconciliation and Peace

The chapter ends with Isaac’s death at 180 years old, and with a family finally coming together after years of strife.

Life application: Relationships matter. Seek reconciliation where possible. Trust that God can heal wounds over time.

Reflection Questions

1. What distractions do I need to put away to encounter God fully?

2. How can I create “altars” in my life to remember God’s faithfulness?

3. In what areas am I focusing on routines or structures rather than God Himself?

4. How can I trust God to bring hope and purpose in the middle of life’s sorrow or challenges?

5. Is God inviting me to take a step toward reconciliation in any relationship and trust Him to heal old wounds?

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Genesis Chapter 36

“God is Faithful”

(Read Genesis Chapter 36 First) 

In Genesis 36 we get to slow down and notice something we often skip over. We will read through how God records Esau’s story in full.

We remember that Esau sold his birthright. We know that he was impulsive. We read that Jacob received the blessing meant for Esau, but we will see today that Genesis 36 is one of the longest genealogical chapters in the book.

That alone tells us that God is faithful to His promises. 

Genesis 36 shows Esau becoming Edom, a fully established nation.

By the end of the chapter, Esau is a man with a family and he is a people with land and leadership and he impacts history in a big way! 

Genesis 25:23…“Two nations are in thy womb…” God kept His word to Abraham.

When Jacob came back, there were too many cattle, beasts, substance, people, and riches between the two brothers for them to dwell together, so Esau moved…

Esau had become wealthy, influential, and he was expanding. By the end of Genesis 36, Edom:

• has dukes

• has kings

• has territory

• has structure

But Edom is never the covenant nation.

In this chapter, lineage is carefully traced:

• Esau’s sons

• Eliphaz’s sons

• Reuel’s sons

• Seir the Horite and his descendants

• Kings before Israel had kings

• Dukes according to places

Genesis 36 is showing how a people form over time:

• marriages

• intermingling

• leadership rising

• territories being named

This reminded me of 1 Corinthians 14:40:

“Let all things be done decently and in order.”

God likes order.

Real-life connection:

The choices we make matter. Who we marry, where we settle, who we choose as leaders…It all matters. You don’t just wake up one day as a “nation”…good or bad, you become one step at a time.

“He is Esau the father of the Edomites.”

Genesis 36 closes Esau’s story.

Israel’s story, on the other hand, is still unfolding. We will see him wandering, waiting, struggling, and trusting.

Genesis 36 reminds us that God keeps His word. Esau became the father of the nation of Edom, (Two nations are in thy womb…) It also shows us a God of order and faithfulness, carefully recording a people He promised to establish. 

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Genesis Chapter 37

“They Meant Evil”

(Read Genesis Chapter 37 First)

Genesis chapter 37 introduces us to Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel. Joseph was only seventeen years old when we meet him, out feeding the flock with his brothers. Verse two tells us something important right away. Joseph brought back a bad report to his father about his brothers. Apparently, they were doing something they weren’t supposed to be doing, and Joseph told on them.

The Bible then tells us that Jacob loved Joseph more than all his children because he was the son of his old age, and he made him a coat of many colors. This favoritism no doubt created tension between Joseph and his brothers. Scripture says Joseph’s brothers hated him so much that “they could not speak peaceably unto him” (Genesis 37:4).

That had to be a painful place to be. 

But here’s the spoiler alert we’re given throughout Joseph’s life…God works it all out in Joseph’s favor. If you’ve ever felt ostracized, targeted, or mistreated because of jealousy or envy, this story should encourage you. People may try everything they can to harm you, but there is nothing they can do that God cannot protect you from or turn for good.

Joseph later says this to his brothers:

“But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good” (Genesis 50:20).

That’s exactly what we begin to see unfolding in this chapter.

Joseph begins having dreams. In the first dream, his sheaf rises up and stands upright while his brothers’ sheaves bow down to it. In the second dream, the sun, moon, and eleven stars bow down to him. He tells his brothers and his father about these dreams, and it only makes matters worse. His brothers hate him even more, assuming he is implying that he will reign over them.

His father rebukes him, but Scripture tells us something interesting…Jacob observed the saying (Genesis 37:11). That tells me that he didn’t dismiss it completely. He held onto it and probably thought about it from time to time. 

One day, Joseph’s brothers travel to Shechem to feed their flocks. Jacob sends Joseph to check on their wellbeing. When Joseph arrives, he can’t find them. A man sees him wandering in the field and asks what he’s looking for. After Joseph explains, the man tells him he overheard the brothers saying they were going to Dothan.

So Joseph keeps going until he reaches Dothan.

When the brothers see him coming from a distance, they conspire together to kill him. They call him “this dreamer” and decide they will stop his dreams once and for all. What started as jealousy has now grown into a willingness to commit evil against their own brother.

There’s a lesson here for all of us.

Don’t let jealousy or envy live in your heart. Don’t let it take root. Don’t water it by thinking on it or giving it space in your mind. What you nurture will grow whether for good or for evil.

Scripture reminds us:

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23).

And also:

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7).

Choose to water thoughts that are joyful, kind, peaceful, patient, loving, and content.

The brothers come up with a plan to kill Joseph and throw him into a pit, saying an evil beast devoured him. They even mockingly say, “and we shall see what will become of his dreams” (Genesis 37:20).

Yes, we will.

Reuben, the oldest brother, doesn’t want to shed Joseph’s blood. He convinces them to throw Joseph into a pit instead. When Joseph arrives, they strip him of his coat of many colors and throw him into a pit with no water. Then, shockingly, they sit down to eat.

While they are eating, they see Ishmaelite traders traveling to Egypt with spices, balm, and myrrh. Judah suggests they sell Joseph instead of killing him. The brothers agree.

When Reuben returns to the pit, Joseph is gone. He tears his clothes in distress, but it’s too late. Midianite merchants had pulled Joseph out and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver, who then take him to Egypt.

The brothers dip Joseph’s coat in goat’s blood and present it to their father. Jacob believes his beloved son has been torn apart by a wild animal. He mourns deeply and refuses to be comforted, saying he will go to his grave grieving.

Meanwhile, Joseph is alive.

He is sold to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, in Egypt.

At this point, it may be hard to understand why we say God is working all of this for Joseph’s good. Nothing about this looks good yet. But stay tuned.

Sometimes God’s purpose takes us through pits, betrayal, loss, and waiting before we see the outcome and reasoning. Scripture reminds us to be patient in suffering:

“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

If you’re in a season where things feel unfair or confusing, remember Joseph and remember that God is still working. 

Week 22 of the Devotional Series

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The Study of Genesis: Post Ten

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our tenth devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 22 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next several weeks.

Focus: Genesis 25 – 26

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 25 – “A Blessed Life Like Abraham” 

Chapter 26 – God’s Blessing and Peace”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “And the LORD appeared unto him the same night, and said, I am the God of Abraham thy father: fear not, for I am with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham’s sake.” Genesis 26:24 

Genesis Chapter 25

“A Blessed Life Like Abraham”

(Read Genesis Chapter 25 First) 

When I first read Genesis 25, I was honestly shocked to learn that Abraham married again and had more children after Sarah’s death. He was already so old! But when you live to be 175 years old, that does change what we think of as “old age.” His new wife, Keturah, bore him six more sons.

Even though Abraham had all these other children, the Bible says he gave Isaac all that he possessed. The others received gifts and were sent away, but Isaac inherited the covenant promise. 

Then verse 8 really spoke to me:

“Then Abraham gave up the ghost, and died in a good old age, an old man, and full of years; and was gathered to his people.”

— Genesis 25:8 (KJV)

That is such a picture of a blessed life. That’s exactly what I want for my family and myself. I pray we live fully, die at peace, and one day be gathered together with those in heaven. 

When we look at Abraham’s heart and life, we see why Scripture calls him “the friend of God.” Let’s take a closer look at some of the traits that may have led to his blessings.

1. Faith and Obedience

“By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed…”

— Hebrews 11:8 (KJV)

Abraham trusted God even when he didn’t understand the plan. He left everything familiar simply because God said “Go.”

2. Belief in God’s Promises

“And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.”

— Genesis 15:6 (KJV)

He believed God would do what He said even when it seemed impossible, like having Isaac at 100 years old.

3. Humility and Dependence on God

“And Abraham fell on his face: and God talked with him…”

— Genesis 17:3 (KJV)

Abraham approached God with humility and reverence. He knew every blessing came from the Lord, not his own effort.

4. Peacefulness and Generosity

“Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee… for we be brethren.”

— Genesis 13:8 (KJV)

When conflict came between him and Lot, Abraham chose peace over pride. He gave Lot first choice of the land, trusting that God would still take care of him. That’s the kind of strength that honors God.

5. Hospitality and Kindness

“And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him…”

— Genesis 18:2 (KJV)

Abraham was quick to serve others even if they were strangers. That heart of hospitality brought blessing; it was during that encounter that the Lord promised Isaac’s birth.

6. Intercession and Compassion

“Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked?”

— Genesis 18:23 (KJV)

Abraham cared about people, even the sinful cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. His prayers for others tell us that he had a heart that reflected God’s mercy.

7. Willingness to Sacrifice

“And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son.”

— Genesis 22:10 (KJV)

Abraham was willing to give up his most precious blessing to obey God. His obedience showed that his relationship with God mattered more than anything else.

8. Faithfulness Throughout His Life

“Then Abraham gave up the ghost, and died in a good old age, an old man, and full of years…”

— Genesis 25:8 (KJV)

A long, peaceful life was the fruit of walking faithfully with God for many years. Abraham trusted, obeyed, and worshiped through every season and God rewarded him with a full, blessed life.

Abraham was buried with Sarah in the cave of Machpelah, and after his death, Scripture lists the sons of Ishmael, his son by Hagar. I love how verse 16 connects back to God’s earlier promise:

“And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful… twelve princes shall he beget.”

— Genesis 17:20 (KJV)

And sure enough, Genesis 25:16 says,

“These are the sons of Ishmael… twelve princes according to their nations.”

Cold chills! God keeps every single promise.

Then we see Isaac praying earnestly for Rebekah, because she was barren for twenty years.

“And Isaac intreated the LORD for his wife… and the LORD was intreated of him.”

— Genesis 25:21 (KJV)

This shows the power of sincere prayer. When our hearts are humble and full of faith, God truly does hear us. Rebekah conceived not one baby but two! 

When the babies struggled within her, Rebekah asked God what was happening, and the Lord told her that two nations were in her womb and the older would serve the younger. Those twins, Esau and Jacob, would grow into very different men and their story reminds us that God’s purposes are often carried out in ways we don’t expect.

Later in the chapter, Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of soup.

He was so focused on satisfying his hunger that he gave away his sacred inheritance and blessing as firstborn.

This is a powerful warning for us today to not trade our spiritual blessings for temporary satisfaction. The world will always tempt us to choose what feels good right now instead of what’s eternal and right before God.

Real-Life Application

Abraham’s story, and this whole chapter, reminds me that a blessed life isn’t about having everything easy or perfect. It’s about walking with God in faith, obedience, humility, and prayer.

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Genesis Chapter 26

“God’s Blessing and Peace”

(Read Genesis Chapter 26 First) 

In Genesis chapter 26, Isaac and Rebekah find themselves facing a famine, just like Abraham and Sarah once did. They needed somewhere to go for food, so they traveled to Gerar. And the LORD appeared to Isaac.

God told him something very specific:

“Don’t go down to Egypt. Stay where I tell you to stay.”

Then, God promised Isaac blessing, multiplication, land, and the fulfillment of every oath God made to his father, Abraham.

And then comes one of my favorite verses:

“Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws.” (Genesis 26:5.)

It’s like God is saying to me… “Do you want to know why I bless? Do you want to know how to be blessed yourself?”

He answers it plainly…Because Abraham obeyed.

He obeyed God’s voice, God’s charge, His commandments, His statutes, and His laws.

I feel like the LORD is telling us today from his Word…

“Do what My Word tells you to do, and you will walk in blessing.”

And Isaac does just that. He stays in Gerar.

Then, history repeats itself. 

Just like Abraham once did, Isaac became fearful for his life because of his wife’s beauty. Abraham lied about Sarah being his sister in Egypt, and now Isaac tells the men of Gerar the same thing about Rebekah.

After a long while, the truth comes out when King Abimelech sees Isaac flirting and playing with Rebekah through a window. His cover was blown!

Abimelech confronts him, warns everyone not to touch them, and God protects Isaac in spite of his lie.

Aren’t you thankful God blesses us even when we mess up?

Isaac stays obedient. He plants crops during a famine, and in the same year, he receives one hundredfold. God was blessing him so clearly and the Philistines became jealous. Isaac grows so prosperous that Abimelech finally asks him to leave.

Isaac moves on to the valley of Gerar. There he begins to re-dig his father’s wells that the Philistines had covered up, and he names them what Abraham named them. 

One well brings strife.

The herdmen claim it.

So Isaac moves on.

Another well…more arguing.

So he moves again.

Finally, a well with no fighting, no claiming, no striving.

Isaac knows:

“This is the place God will bless me.” He says, “…For now the LORD hath made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.” (Genesis 26:22)

And what a beautiful life lesson we can see through Isaac and the wells…Where there is constant strife, God may be calling you to adjust something in your life. Where there is peace, God can plant you and bless you.

Isaac goes to Beersheba, and the LORD appears again:

“And the LORD appeared unto him the same night, and said,

I am the God of Abraham thy father: fear not, for I am with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant Abraham’s sake.”

“Fear not… I am with thee… I will bless thee.”

Isaac responds with four things:

• He builds an altar

• Calls on the name of the Lord

• Pitches his tent

• Digs a well

He is planting his life where God wants him.

In this next section, we will see that people will see God’s hand on you. 

Abimelech and his officials come to visit Isaac. Isaac is basically like,

“Why are you here? You sent me away.”

But look at their answer:

“We saw that the LORD is certainly with you.”

God makes even your enemies recognize His protection over you.

They ask for peace and a covenant because they fear the hand of God on Isaac’s life.

Isaac prepares a feast and they all enjoy it together. They leave in peace.

And that same day, Isaac’s servants hit water in the well they were digging. Another blessing! 

God is confirming His promise over and over.

The chapter closes with Esau marrying two Hittite women, and the Bible says this was a grief to Isaac and Rebekah (Genesis 26:34–35). It reminds me of how Abraham carefully sent for a wife for Isaac from his own people. 

Ending / Closing Reflection:

As we see in Genesis 25–26, a blessed life isn’t about perfection or having everything easy. It’s about faithfully walking with God, trusting His guidance, obeying His commands, and resting in His promises.

Isaac’s story teaches us that:

• Peace can be a sign of God’s favor. Where there is strife, God may be   calling you to adjust, but where there is peace, He can plant and bless you.

• God can protects us, even when we make mistakes or feel uncertain.

• God’s blessings are often tied to obedience, trust, and patience.

Take a moment to reflect: Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to trust Him more fully? Are you seeking His peace instead of striving in conflict? Are you planting your life where He can bless it?

Week 21 of the Devotional Series 

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The Study of Genesis: Post Nine

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our ninth devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 21 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next several weeks.

Focus: Genesis 22 – 24

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 22 – “God Tests the Heart”

Chapter 23 – “This is Home”

Chapter 24 – “I Will Go”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go.” Genesis 24:58

Genesis Chapter 22

“God Tests the Heart”

(Read Genesis Chapter 22 First) 

Genesis 22 opens by telling us that after Abraham had lived in the land of the Philistines for a long time, God decided to test him. God asked him to take his son, Isaac, whom he loved, and go to the land of Moriah to offer him as a burnt offering.

I had to remind myself what a burnt offering meant to God. It symbolized complete worship and devotion. The entire sacrifice was burned up and nothing was held back. It was also offered as atonement for sin, but most importantly, it showed that the worshiper belonged wholly to the Lord.

In other words, God was testing whether Abraham truly loved Him above everything, even the son he had waited so long for.

Abraham obeyed without hesitation. He got up early the next morning, gathered everything needed, and set out to do what God commanded. When he saw the place in the distance, he told the two young men traveling with him to stay behind while he and Isaac went on to worship.

That detail of the two young men made me curious. Why did he bring them? Maybe for help with the supplies or the journey, but then I thought it could have a deeper meaning…it shows Abraham’s faith. He told them, “I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you” (v. 5). Even before climbing the mountain, Abraham believed somehow that both he and Isaac would return. (Hebrews 11:19 later tells us that Abraham believed God could raise Isaac from the dead.)  After all, it was through Isaac that God had promised to bless and multiply Abraham’s seed, and Abraham had faith that God would keep His word.

Then came the part that always touches my heart. Isaac carried the wood for the offering, while Abraham carried the fire and the knife. As they climbed, Isaac asked, “Father, where is the lamb for the burnt offering?”

And Abraham replied with one of the most beautiful foreshadowing lines in all of Scripture:

“My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering.” (Genesis 22:8)

And He did. First for Abraham when he provided a ram caught in the thicket, and later for all of us, when He gave His Son Jesus, the Lamb of God, to die in our place.

When they reached the place, Abraham built the altar, arranged the wood, tied Isaac, and laid him upon it. Just as he raised the knife, the angel of the Lord called out from heaven, telling him not to harm the boy. Abraham had proven that he feared and trusted God fully.

This moment reveals so much about God and our relationship with Him. God doesn’t desire our pain; He desires our hearts. He wants to know that nothing, not even the dearest blessing, comes before Him.

It made me stop and ask: Is God truly first in my life? Do I love Him more than anything or anyone else? In any healthy relationship, you spend time together, talk, and get to know each other deeply. If we aren’t doing that with God, we can’t say He’s first.

Let’s look at some practical ways to put God first in our lives: 

1. Start your day with Him.

Before checking your phone or starting your to-do list, pause to pray and read the Bible. Just a few quiet moments with God can set the tone for your whole day.

2. Seek His will before making decisions.

Ask, “Lord, what would You have me do?” It keeps your heart aligned with His.

3. Tithe and give with trust.

Like Abraham offering his best, give to God first, not from what’s left. It reminds us that everything we have belongs to Him.

4. Obey even when it’s uncomfortable.

Sometimes putting God first means saying “yes” when it’s hard, or letting go of something we want.

5. Keep worship and prayer at the center.

Whether at church or in your kitchen, take time to worship.

6. Guard your heart and mind.

Be careful what you allow in. Philippians 4:8 reminds us to think on what is true, pure, lovely, and good.

7. Love others intentionally.

Show God’s love through kindness, patience, and forgiveness

8. Rest in Him.

Sometimes putting God first means slowing down, trusting that He’s in control even when you’re not doing it all.

9. Keep a thankful heart.

Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing to what God’s already done. Try ending each day with three things you’re thankful for.

10. Stay rooted in His Word.

The more we know Scripture, the more our choices align with His word. The Bible becomes our compass.

After Abraham’s test, he looked up and saw a ram caught in the thicket. He offered it instead of Isaac and then the angel of the Lord spoke again, declaring that because Abraham obeyed and was willing to give up his only son, God would bless him and multiply his descendants.

Did you notice that? Willingness brings blessing.

Verse 18 says it beautifully:

“And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.”

Abraham’s story reminds us that obedience and faith open the door to blessing and not just for us but for generations to come.

Reflection: 

Is there something God is asking you to surrender? Maybe it’s a dream you’ve been holding onto, or a plan for your life that’s taken first place in your heart. God doesn’t ask us to let go to hurt us. He does it to draw us closer, to remind us that He alone can take first place again.

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Genesis Chapter 23

“This is Home”

(Read Genesis Chapter 23 First) 

We come now to the death of Sarah. She was 127 years old when she died.

In verse 2, we read:

“And Sarah died in Kirjath-arba (the same is Hebron in the land of Canaan): and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah, and to weep for her.”

I’ve never noticed this before, but that phrase “Abraham came to mourn for Sarah” makes me wonder if they were living apart at the time of her death. The previous chapter ended with Abraham dwelling in Beersheba (Genesis 22:19), while Sarah died in Hebron. Scripture doesn’t tell us why, but it’s an interesting detail. They were a real husband and wife who had gone through trials, tests, and moves for decades.

Even in Abraham’s grief, he shows deep honor and faith. He rises up, speaks respectfully to the people of the land, and negotiates a permanent burial site for Sarah. The Hittites call him a “mighty prince” among them, showing how much his integrity and faith had earned their respect.

Abraham asks for the cave of Machpelah, owned by Ephron the son of Zohar. Though Ephron initially offers to give it as a gift, Abraham insists on paying full price which was four hundred shekels of silver. He doesn’t want to owe anyone or receive the land by favor. He wants it legally his.

That’s significant because this becomes the first recorded piece of land Abraham ever owned in Canaan… the very land God had promised to give him and his descendants. Even though he still lived as a foreigner, Abraham planted his faith right there in that field. By burying Sarah in Canaan, I think he was thinking..’This is home. This is the land God promised us.’ We will see later that Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Leah were all buried here in the same cave as well.

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Genesis Chapter 24

“I Will Go”

(Read Genesis Chapter 24 First) 

Now Abraham was old, and the LORD had kept His promise to bless him. I love how verse one says, “The LORD had blessed Abraham in all things.”

Abraham called his eldest servant, the one who ruled over all that he had, and asked him to put his hand under his thigh, which was how they made a serious oath in those days. This kind of vow was deeply personal and sacred. Abraham wanted his servant to swear that he would not take a wife for Isaac from among the Canaanites but instead go to Abraham’s homeland and find a wife from his kindred.

The servant asked a reasonable question: what if the woman would not be willing to come back? Should he then take Isaac back to Abraham’s country? But Abraham was adamant that Isaac should not go. The LORD had brought Abraham out of that land and promised Canaan to his descendants, so Isaac was to stay in the land of promise.

After they made the oath, the servant gathered his camels and men and set out for the city of Nahor. When he arrived, he stopped by a well at evening time, knowing the women would come to draw water. There, he prayed. I love that he didn’t rush ahead or rely on his own wisdom, but paused and sought the LORD’s help. He asked God to show kindness to his master Abraham and to give him success in his task.

He even asked specifically that the chosen girl would say, “Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also.” That would be the sign that God had appointed her. Before he even finished praying, Rebekah came to the well and said those very words. I love that God is so good at answering prayers before we’ve even finished speaking them?

Rebekah was beautiful, kind, and hardworking. She was also from Abraham’s own family line. After she finished watering his camels, the servant gave her a golden earring and two bracelets and asked if there was room for them to stay at her home. When she said yes, the servant bowed his head and worshipped the LORD.

I had to stop and think…How often do I move from one blessing to the next without pausing to bow my head and worship the LORD? His faithfulness deserves our daily gratitude.

Rebekah ran home to tell her family, and her brother Laban came out to greet the servant, calling him “thou blessed of the LORD.” I love their hospitality! They gave water for the camels, water for washing, and food for the men. Such a simple, generous welcome. It reminded me how meaningful it is to make our homes warm and ready for others. Also to be quick to offer comfort, food, or a listening ear. Hospitality doesn’t have to be fancy just full of love.

The servant told Rebekah’s family the whole story of how Abraham sent him, how he prayed, and how the LORD answered in such perfect detail. Laban and Bethuel responded, “The thing proceedeth from the LORD.” They recognized that this was God’s doing, and they agreed to let Rebekah go. Once again, the servant bowed down to the ground and worshipped the LORD.

He gave Rebekah gifts of gold, silver, and fine clothing and also gave precious things to her family. They all ate, drank, and rejoiced together. The next morning, when the servant asked to leave, Rebekah’s family wanted her to stay a few more days, and who could blame them? They must have loved her dearly. But they said, “Let us call the damsel, and enquire at her mouth.” When Rebekah was asked if she would go, she said simply, “I will go.”

Before she left, her family blessed her with beautiful words:

“Be thou the mother of thousands of millions, and let thy seed possess the gate of those which hate them.”

It’s the same blessing God gave Abraham in Genesis 22. I love that this was a sign that His covenant promises were unfolding right before their eyes.

As they traveled, Isaac went out into the field to meditate in the evening. When he looked up, he saw the camels coming. Rebekah lifted her eyes, saw Isaac, and quickly got down from her camel. When she learned it was him, she took her veil and covered herself. This tells us that she was modest and reverent. 

Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah’s tent, and she became his wife, and he loved her. What a beautiful ending to this story of faith and obedience.

Reflections and Life Applications:

• Pray with purpose. Like Abraham’s servant, bring your specific requests to God. He cares about the details. 

• Pause to worship. Don’t rush past God’s blessings. Take time to bow  your head and thank Him. 

• Be ready to go when God calls. Rebekah’s willingness to say “I will go” challenges us to obey God quickly, even when the future is unknown.

• Practice hospitality. Open your heart and home to others. Small acts of kindness can reflect the heart of Christ in a powerful way.

• Prepare yourself for your Bridegroom. Rebekah’s story is a picture of the Church’s relationship with Christ. We are called to leave our old life, follow where He leads, and clothe ourselves in humility as we await His return.

Heavenly Father, 

Thank you for giving Your Son Jesus, the Lamb of God, to die in our place. I’m so glad that You desire our hearts. We were reminded that You want to know that we put nothing before You. Help us to remember to apply the practical ways to put You first in our lives. Lord, we want to be willing to do what you want us to do. We know that willingness brings blessing. Bring to our minds things in our lives that we need to surrender. Help remind us not to rush ahead or rely on our own wisdom, but to pause and seek Your help. You are so good at answering prayers before we’ve even finished speaking them. Thank you so much for each and every blessing You’ve given me. Help us to be hospitable and make our homes warm and ready for others and be quick to offer comfort, food, a listening ear, and most of all…love.

In Jesus’ name, 

Amen

Week 20 of the Devotional Series

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The Study of Genesis: Post Eight

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our eighth devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 20 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next several weeks.

Focus: Genesis 19 – 21

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 19 – “The Hand of Mercy”

Chapter 20 –  “Faith over Fear”

Chapter 21 – “Always Faithful”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “And the Lord visited Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did unto Sarah as he had spoken.”    Genesis 21:1

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Genesis Chapter 19

“The Hand of Mercy”

(Read Genesis Chapter 19 First) 

We’re at the scene where the two angels who left Abraham’s tent have arrived in Sodom. Lot was sitting at the city gate when he saw them. This was a place of leadership and decision-making. He immediately rose to meet them and bowed with his face toward the ground (v. 1).

That amazes me. How did he know they were angels? Genesis 18 tells us the angels looked like men, but Lot must have sensed something holy about them since he responded with such reverence and urgency.

And this makes me think…as Christians, how we carry ourselves matters. When we live purely, peaceably, and have humility, others should sense the presence of God in us too. We can live in such a way that people can recognize something different without us even saying a word.

Lot begged the men to come to his home, wash their feet, and rest for the night. He knew the wickedness that filled the streets after dark and wanted to protect them. At first, they refused, saying they would stay in the streets, but Lot insisted. He served them a meal, but before they could rest, the men of the city surrounded the house, demanding that Lot bring out his guests.

This part of the story always grieves me. Lot went outside and pleaded with the mob not to do such wickedness. Lot was desperate and he even offered his two daughters instead. Had living in Sodom’s corruption affected Lot too? It’s a reminder that when we live too close to sin for too long, it dulls our sense of right and wrong.

When the men were closing in on Lot, the two angels reached out, pulled him inside, shut the door, and struck the men outside with blindness. God showed mercy on Lot. 

Then the angels told Lot to gather his family and flee because God was about to destroy the city. But when Lot warned his sons-in-law, they laughed and thought he was joking. How often do people treat God’s warnings the same way today? People think there’s still time to live however they please.

Morning came, and it shocked me to read that Lot lingered. That word really stood out to me. Why linger when destruction is very near? But then I thought…don’t we do the same sometimes? We may hold on to things that feel comfortable, easy, or we may even try to compromise when God is calling us to move forward?

Verse 16 paints one of the most beautiful pictures of God’s mercy:

“And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him.”

What a tender scene. God literally takes Lot by the hand and pulls him out of danger. It reminds me of how gently God sometimes deals with us when we hesitate. He reaches down in mercy, takes us by the hand, and leads us out.

Lot begged God to go to a nearby city instead of the mountains, and God graciously allowed it. But interestingly, Lot eventually ended up in the very mountains he tried to avoid. That’s such a clear reminder that God’s way is always best, even when we can’t see it at first. We often think we’re choosing the “easier” path, but eventually, obedience always leads us to where God wanted us in the first place.

When God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, Lot’s wife disobeyed and looked back, turning into a pillar of salt. Was her heart still tied to what she left behind? We can learn from this and take it as a warning for us not to look back with longing at the things God has called us to leave. Obedience isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.

Verse 27 stood out to me:

“And Abraham got up early in the morning to the place where he stood before the LORD.”

What a faithful habit. Abraham started his day in the presence of God, and it’s no wonder his life was marked by blessing. I want that kind of consistency of waking early, standing before the Lord, and interceding for others.

And in verse 29 we read,

“God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow.”

Lot was spared because of Abraham’s prayers. That tells me something powerful: intercession matters! Your prayers for your family, friends, and community may be what God uses to rescue them from harm. I want to be that kind of friend, like Abraham, someone who stands in the gap for others.

The chapter ends with Lot and his daughters alone in the mountains. The very place God told them to go in the first place. Sadly, fear and poor judgment lead the daughters to sin, and from that came two nations: the Moabites and Ammonites.

Life Application

• Don’t linger where God has called you to leave.

• Obedience may not always feel comfortable, but it’s always safest.

• Interceding for others can change their destiny.

• God’s plans are always better than the ones we insist on for ourselves.

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Genesis Chapter 20

“Faith over Fear ”

(Read Genesis Chapter 20 First) 

Abraham and Sarah find themselves once again on the move. When they arrive in Gerar, Abraham repeats a mistake we’ve already seen him make. He asks Sarah to say she’s his sister. Just like in Genesis 12, he’s letting fear drive his decisions. He’s convinced the people will kill him to have her.

It’s easy to wonder why Abraham didn’t learn the first time, but we do the same thing… Sometimes we trust God in one season and panic in the next. Fear makes us forget God’s faithfulness.

In this story, King Abimelech takes Sarah, not knowing she’s married, but God steps in. He appears to Abimelech in a dream and says, “You are a dead man… she is a man’s wife.” Abimelech pleads his case, saying he acted innocently, and God agrees, saying one of the most comforting lines in the chapter:

“Yes, I know that thou didst this in the integrity of thy heart; for I also withheld thee from sinning against me.” (Genesis 20:6)

What a reminder that God is not only sovereign, but merciful. He sometimes steps in and keeps us from sinning and protecting us from situations we didn’t even see coming.

In the end, God restores everything. Abraham prays for Abimelech, and the Lord heals him and his household by opening the wombs He had closed. Even though Abraham failed, God still worked through him.

Maybe you’ve had a moment where you repeated something you thought you’d already overcome, or let fear take the lead again. Be encouraged: God had patience with Abraham and He’s able to extend the same patience to you.

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Genesis Chapter 21

“Always Faithful”

(Read Genesis Chapter 21 First) 

In this chapter, we see the Lord faithfully fulfilling the promise He made to Abraham and Sarah. God visited Sarah just as He said He would, and she conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age. They named him Isaac, meaning “laughter,” just as God commanded. I love verse 6, where Sarah basically says, “God has made me to laugh.” I can almost picture her smiling and choosing to laugh at God’s miracle instead of being overwhelmed by what others might think. It’s a reminder that when God does something amazing in our lives, others may not understand it, but we can still rejoice in it.

When Isaac was weaned, Abraham held a great feast to celebrate. But the joy was quickly interrupted when Sarah saw Hagar’s son, Ishmael, mocking. She demanded that Abraham send Hagar and Ishmael away. At first, this deeply grieved Abraham because Ishmael was his son too. It made me stop and wonder how much authority women had in those days to make such a request. But in verse 12, God steps in and tells Abraham to listen to Sarah because He would take care of Hagar and Ishmael too. Sometimes, God allows us to let go of something painful because He has a separate plan for it.

In verse 14, Abraham sends Hagar and Ishmael off with bread and water. It’s worth noting that Ishmael wasn’t a little boy at this point even though the Bible says “child.” He was at least thirteen (see Genesis 17:25). The Bible often uses the word “child” differently than we do today, and this helps us picture the scene more clearly. When the water ran out in the wilderness, Hagar placed Ishmael under the shade of a shrub and walked away, unable to watch her son die. Her heart broke, and she lifted her voice and wept.

Next is my favorite part of the chapter. God heard the voice of the boy. The angel of the Lord called to Hagar from heaven and said, “Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is.” Then, God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. He provided exactly what they needed in the moment they needed it most. When we feel hopeless, He can step in and open our eyes to the provision that’s already there.

Hagar and Ishmael survived, and Ishmael grew up to be an archer. God was with him, just as He promised.

Later, King Abimelech and his chief captain, Phichol, came to Abraham and said, “God is with you in everything you do.” That’s such a testimony of Abraham’s life. His faith was visible to others. They asked to make a peace agreement, and Abraham agreed but also confronted Abimelech about a well his servants had taken. Abimelech claimed he didn’t know about it, and they resolved the issue by making a covenant. Abraham gave Abimelech sheep and oxen, and he set aside seven lambs as a witness that he had dug the well himself. They named the place Beersheba.

Abraham then planted a grove, and called on the name of the LORD, the Everlasting God. I love that image…

Life Application:

Even when we laugh in disbelief like Sarah, or when we’re sent into the wilderness like Hagar, or when we’re weary from long journeys like Abraham, God is faithful to provide for us, protect us, and keep His promises to us. And just like King Abimelech could see that “God is with you in all that you do,” may our lives also reflect the same faithfulness and favor of our everlasting God.

Week 19 of the Devotional Series

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The Study of Genesis: Post Seven 

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our seventh devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 19 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next several weeks.

Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: Genesis 16 – 18 

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 16 – “When Waiting Feels too Hard”

Chapter 17 – “A Promise” 

Chapter 18 – “Is Anything too Hard for the LORD”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.”  – Genesis 18:14

Genesis Chapter 16

“When Waiting Feels too Hard ”

(Read Genesis Chapter 16 First) 

Have you ever felt like God was taking too long to move in a situation in your life? Maybe you’ve prayed, waited, and believed… but still nothing seems to change. It’s in those moments of waiting that our faith is stretched and sometimes, like Sarai in Genesis 16, we’re tempted to take matters into our own hands.

At the start of this chapter, we find Sarai heartbroken because she hasn’t been able to have children. In her culture, this was considered one of life’s greatest blessings, and not being able to conceive often brought deep shame and sorrow. She says to Abram, “Behold now, the LORD hath restrained me from bearing.” (Genesis 16:2)

They viewed everything, even fertility, as being under God’s complete control. So when Sarai said this, I don’t believe she was blaming God. I think she was acknowledging His sovereignty. She recognized that life and blessing ultimately come from Him.

Still, her pain was real. And like so many of us do when we grow weary of waiting, she tried to help God out. She gave her maidservant Hagar to Abram, hoping that through her, they would have a child.

At first, it worked. Hagar conceived. But immediately, the plan backfired. The moment Hagar became pregnant, she began to despise Sarai, and I can image there was a lot of tension in the house. Sarai was hurt and angry, and she blamed Abram. Abram told her to do whatever she thought best, and Scripture says Sarai “dealt hardly with her.” The word “hardly” means harshly. She mistreated Hagar to the point that Hagar fled into the wilderness.

An angel of the LORD found Hagar by a spring of water in the wilderness. He called her by name and asked, “Hagar, Sarai’s maid, whence camest thou? and whither wilt thou go?” (v. 8)

He knew exactly who she was and where she was, but I believe He asked the question to get her to begin speaking from her heart. 

When she explained her situation, the angel told her to return and submit to Sarai. That must have been a hard instruction to hear…to go back to the very place she’d run from. But He also made her a promise…

“I will multiply thy seed exceedingly, that it shall not be numbered for multitude.” (v. 10)

Only God can make promises like that.

He also told her she was carrying a son and should name him Ishmael, meaning “God hears.” Then He said something so tender:

“Because the LORD hath heard thy affliction.” (v. 11)

What a comfort! The Lord heard her pain. He didn’t overlook her, even though she was an Egyptian slave, mistreated and alone.

Hagar’s response is one of the most beautiful moments in the chapter. She calls the Lord, “Thou God seest me” (v. 13). Then, in awe, she says, “Have I also here looked after him that seeth me?” In other words: Have I really just seen the God who sees me?

Hagar may have been unseen by everyone else, but she was deeply seen and known by God.

This story reminds me of how easy it is to rush God’s promises. Sarai wanted to have children, but she didn’t want to wait any longer. And in her impatience, she created a painful situation for everyone involved.

I’ve been there before…trying to “fix” things, to force a certain outcome, or to make a promise happen faster. And like Sarai, it usually leaves me more frustrated than before.

But even if we stray from God’s perfect plan, He doesn’t abandon us. He met Hagar right where she was. She had to feel alone, hurt, and afraid, but He reminded her that He sees her and hears her. He’s still that same God today.

Apply It Personally:

When was the last time you tried to hurry something God was asking you to wait on? Maybe it’s a relationship, a dream, a season of healing, or a prayer you’ve been praying for a long time.

Ask yourself:

• What is one area of my life where I’ve been tempted to take control   instead of trusting God’s timing?

• What would it look like to surrender that back to Him this week?

• How can I remind myself that He sees me and hears me, even in the   waiting?

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Genesis Chapter 17

“A Promise”

(Read Genesis Chapter 17 First) 

Fast forward thirteen years from the birth of Ishmael (Abram and Hagar’s son).  Abram is now ninety-nine years old when the LORD appears to him again and says,

“I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.” (Genesis 17:1)

And how does Abram respond? He falls on his face. Such a humble and immediate act of reverence. His heart instantly recognized the need to surrender to God. 

God reminds Abram of His covenant that He would make him fruitful, that nations and kings would come from him, and that this covenant would be everlasting. But this time, God changes Abram’s name to Abraham, meaning “father of many nations.” God even changes Sarai’s name to Sarah, meaning “princess.”

The name changes are so touching to me because it’s as if God is giving them a fresh identity to go along with his promise. He’s about to do something new through them, so he wants to call them something fresh. Then God gives Abraham a sign of the covenant, circumcision, a physical reminder that Abraham and his descendants belonged to God. Today, it reminds me of the New Testament verse that tells us that God calls for a circumcision of the heart (Romans 2:29). 

“But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.”

In other words, He wants our hearts to be set apart for Him. He wants us to be obedient, humble, and faithful.

When Abraham hears that Sarah will bear a son at ninety years old, he laughs. Can you imagine? After waiting so long, God’s promise was finally becoming real.

And I love that God takes time to address Abraham’s concern for Ishmael. He says tenderly,

“As for Ishmael, I have heard thee… I have blessed him.”

Even though Ishmael wasn’t the child of promise, God still had a plan and blessing for him. Isn’t that just like our Father? Merciful, personal, and attentive…not forgetting anyone.

Then, as soon as the LORD finishes speaking, Abraham obeys immediately. He and every male in his household are circumcised that same day. 

Life Application 

Genesis 17 reminds me of a few things we can think about in our own lives… 

God never forgets what He’s spoken even if years have passed and nothing seems to be happening.

Your commitment could be a step of surrender, a decision to trust again, or a willingness to stop and wait when you would rather act. Whatever it is, it’s proof that your heart belongs to Him.

So if you’re waiting on something today, remember this: God’s timing may not be what you expected, but His promises are never late.

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Genesis Chapter 18

“Is Anything too Hard for the LORD”

(Read Genesis Chapter 18 First) 

This chapter begins with the LORD appearing again to Abraham. He’s sitting in his tent on a hot day when he looks up and sees three men standing nearby. Without hesitation, Abraham runs to meet them, bows low, and humbly invites them to rest and be refreshed.

He says, “Let a little water be fetched, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts” (Genesis 18:4–5).

I love that phrase…“comfort your hearts with bread.” Good food has always been such a real source of comfort and joy.  Abraham rushes to Sarah, telling her to quickly make cakes, then runs to the herd to prepare a tender calf, and serves the men bread, butter, milk, and meat. This whole scene feels so warm and personal. I love Abraham’s hospitality. 

Then the visitors ask about Sarah, and one of them tells Abraham that she will have a son. Sarah overhears and laughs to herself. She’s long past childbearing age, and the idea seems impossible. But the LORD, who knows our thoughts, asks Abraham, “Wherefore did Sarah laugh?”

That moment reminds me of how intimately God knows us.

The Bible is full of verses that tell us He knows our thoughts. He knows every motive, every secret, every unspoken word. Psalm 139:1–2 says He knows when we sit and rise; Jeremiah 17:10 says He searches the heart and tests the mind. Nothing within us is hidden from Him. Knowing that makes me want to guard my mind carefully, to keep my thoughts aligned with His truth and not my fears.

God knows our thoughts and He also knows our faith. He sees when we believe Him and when we struggle to. Like Jesus recognizing the faith of the friends who lowered the paralyzed man (Matthew 9:2), or seeing the faith of the centurion who believed He could heal with just a word (Matthew 8:10), the Lord knows exactly how much faith we have and how much we need to grow. He’s patient with us, just as He was with Sarah.

Then comes one of my favorite verses in the whole Bible:

“Is any thing too hard for the LORD?” (Genesis 18:14)

It’s almost as if God is gently reminding Sarah, and all of us, that His power isn’t limited by anything, even though we may see it as an impossibility. He says He will return at the appointed time, and Sarah will have a son. And of course, He keeps His word perfectly.

Later, as the men rise to leave, the LORD reveals His plan to investigate the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah. He says the cry of the cities is very great and their sin is so severe that it has reached His ears. Even though God already knows everything, He says He will “go down and see” for Himself. That shows His justice and compassion. He draws near, observes, and acts righteously. The same God who heard the cry of Abel’s blood in Genesis 4 and the groaning of the Israelites in Exodus 2 still hears every cry today. Nothing escapes His notice.

Then Abraham does something so beautiful. He draws near to the LORD and begins to intercede. Humbly, he asks if God would spare the city for fifty righteous people, then forty, then thirty, then twenty, and finally ten. Each time, God agrees. That shows how merciful and patient our God is, willing to withhold judgment for the sake of even a few righteous hearts.

Life Application:

Genesis 18 teaches me several things I want to carry into my own walk with God:

• God’s timing is never late. Even when His promises seem impossible, He   will do what He has said.

• He knows our hearts completely. Nothing is hidden from Him.

• Abraham’s prayer reminds me that God welcomes bold, humble prayers   for others.

• He draws near to us when we cry out. He comes close to see and to act   in perfect love.

So today, whatever feels too hard, too delayed, or too heavy to fix, remember His question:

“Is any thing too hard for the LORD?”

Heavenly Father, 

We are so blessed that You hear us and that You don’t overlook us. Please forgive us when we have tried to rush a situation that wasn’t in Your timing. Help us to remember that when we try to interfere or push our own timelines it usually doesn’t end well for all involved. Help us to be patient in periods of waiting, knowing that Your plan will be better than anything we could dream up. Thank You so much for Your promises and Your perfect timing. Help us to guard our hearts and keep our thoughts aligned with the truth of Your Word. When someone in our lives needs prayer, may we come to You boldly on their behalf. We are so grateful that when we cry out to You that You draw near to us. We know there is nothing too hard for You.  

In Jesus’ name, 

Amen

Week 18 of the Devotional Series

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The Study Of Genesis – Post Six

***Note – We have completed the book of Job. Now, as we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our sixth devotion in Genesis. Though we’re in Week 18 overall, we’ll be in Genesis for the next several weeks.

Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: Genesis 14 – 15 

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 14 – “Faith in Action” 

Chapter 15 – “God Can Bring us Out to Bring us in”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — 

“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 

I Do – Watch Me Study

Genesis Chapter 14

“Faith in Action”

(Read Genesis Chapter 14 First) 

As we’re making our way through the Bible, we are going to find that some chapters are history lessons, and Genesis 14 is one of them. When I first read through it, it was mostly a story about kings and battles, but when you take a closer look, it’s full of lessons about courage, faith, and the kind of character God values.

The chapter opens with a power struggle. For twelve years, several kings had been serving a mighty ruler named Chedorlaomer. They finally grew tired of it and rebelled. Back then, you either served the stronger king or faced the consequences of death…and sure enough, Chedorlaomer came after them.

The kings of Sodom, Gomorrah, and a few others banded together to fight back, but their battle took place in a valley filled with “slimepits. From what I’ve studied, these are like tar pits that people become trapped in. The kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fell into them, their soldiers fled to the mountains, and the enemy swept in and took everything: possessions, food, and even people. Among the captives was Abram’s nephew, Lot.

When Abram was notified of this, he didn’t hesitate to go after them. He gathered 318 trained men from his household and set out after the enemy. By night, Abram attacked and won. He brought back Lot, all the people, and every bit of what had been stolen.

After the victory, two kings came to meet him. The king of Sodom wanted to offer Abram the goods he’d recovered, and the king of Salem, Melchizedek, also a priest of the most high God, brought bread and wine and blessed Abram, saying:

“Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: and blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand.” -Genesis 14:19–20

Then Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything. This was a little unclear at first in Genesis 14:20, but after a little digging, I found that this was clarified in Hebrews 7:1-2 that says, “For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of peace; 

We don’t hear about Melchizedek again until Psalm 110 and later in the book of Hebrews, where he’s revealed as a picture of Christ. Like Melchizedek, Jesus is both King and Priest. He rules in righteousness and brings peace. And just as Melchizedek offered bread and wine, Jesus offered His own body and blood as the lasting covenant between God and His people. Melchizedek’s blessing over Abram points to the greater blessing that Christ gives us. Christ blesses us with deliverance and not just from our enemies like we see in Genesis 14, but also from sin and death itself.

After Melchizedek’s blessing, the king of Sodom tried to give Abram all the goods, but Abram refused. He told him, “I have lifted up mine hand unto the Lord… that I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet” (v. 22–23). Abram didn’t want anyone to say, “I made Abram rich.” I believe He wanted God alone to get the glory.

I love Abram’s heart here. Not only was he a man of faith, but he was also a man of action. When Lot was in trouble, Abram didn’t sit back and pray for someone else to go…he went himself.

And when he did succeed in retrieving Lot, he didn’t claim the credit or take advantage of it. He gave the glory to God. That’s the kind of quiet strength I want in my own life! I want to have the courage to act when God calls me, and the humility to give Him the glory when all ends well.

It’s also comforting to see that even though Abram wasn’t perfect (we’ve already seen his moments of fear and failure when he asked Sarai to lie to the Egyptians), God still used him mightily. What mattered most wasn’t perfection, but the direction of his heart.

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We Do – Let’s Study Together

Genesis Chapter 15

“God Can Bring us Out to Bring us in”

(Read Genesis Chapter 15 First) 

Genesis 15 opens with such comforting words:

“Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.”  – Genesis 15:1

I love this promise…Not only that God would protect Abram, but that He Himself is the protection and the reward. The same is true for us.

God is our shield. Having God as our shield means He covers, guards, and defends us. That’s a great comfort, but notice something in the verses below…every time God is called a “shield,” there’s one thing expected from us first….TRUST

“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.(Psalm 28:7)

“As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: He is a buckler to all them that trust in him.” (2 Samuel 22:31)

We can’t hide behind His shield if we’re running in fear somewhere else. We must seek Him as our refuge, trust Him, and hope in Him. 

“For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.” (Psalm 84:11)

God is also our reward as He tells us in Genesis 15:1. He promised to be Abram’s exceeding great reward. That means the greatest treasure wasn’t the land he was to own, the victory of winning battles, or the future family he was to have…It was God Himself.

“The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.” (Psalm 16:5)

“My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.” (Psalm 73:26)

Abram’s reward was a person not a possession, and that is true for us today.  He is still the greatest thing we could ever gain.

Then we come to one of the most beautiful verses in all of Scripture:

“And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” (Genesis 15:6)

Abram simply believed God, and God credited that faith as righteousness. There wasn’t anything Abram had to do, except have faith.

This is so important that it’s repeated throughout the New Testament (Romans 4:3, Galatians 3:6, James 2:23). God values faith that believes what He says to be the absolute truth and faith to believe in what you cannot see. 

Verse 7 says, “I am the LORD that brought thee out of Ur of the Chaldees, to give thee this land to inherit it.”

This verse made me think how many times has God brought me out of something that felt hard, confusing, or uncertain, only for me to later realize He was leading me into something better?

Maybe you’ve been in a season where God seemed to be making changes in your life. It might not make sense in the moment, but Genesis 15:7 reminds us that He could be bringing you out of something in order to bring you into something better.

It reminds me of when my husband and I prune my rose bush…it looks harsh to be chopping so much of it off,  but it’s the only way new blooms can grow. Or like cleaning out a cluttered room. It can feel uncomfortable, but it makes room for something beautiful.

When I feel like God is pulling me out of something, I want to pause and remember this: maybe what feels like loss is really the first step toward something He wants to give me. 

Later in the chapter, Abram asked God, “How shall I know that I shall inherit it?” (v. 8) In other words, How can I be sure You’ll really do what You said?

So God told Abram to prepare a covenant. Abram laid out the animal sacrifices, and as the sun went down, he fell into a deep, heavy sleep. Then something amazing happened:

“Behold a smoking furnace, and a burning lamp that passed between those pieces.” (Genesis 15:17)

I studied that in ancient custom, both parties would walk between the divided pieces of animal together and say, “May what happened to these animals happen to me if I break my word.” But here’s what’s incredible: Did you notice when you read the chapter that Abram didn’t walk through. Only God did.

That means the covenant wasn’t dependent on Abram at all. It rested completely on God. God was saying, I will keep My promise, even if you fail. This is so beautiful because it points directly to Jesus and the penalty he paid alone for us.

So, when life feels uncertain and you wonder how His promises could possibly come true, remember this: God doesn’t just make promises. He keeps them. He kept this promise that started with Abram…all the way to the cross for you and me. 

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You Do – Apply It Personally

God’s Word always invites a response. Take time this week to sit with what you’ve learned from Genesis 14–15 and ask the Holy Spirit to make it personal for you.

Below are some prompts to help you reflect and journal:

Trusting Him as Your Shield

• In what area of your life do you need to trust God as your shield, protector and defender?

• Are you tempted to run for safety somewhere else (in worry, control, or self-reliance)?

• Write a prayer of surrender, inviting Him to be your refuge.

Treasuring Him as Your Reward

• What “rewards” in life have been competing for your attention lately?

• How might God be reminding you that He Himself is your exceeding great reward?

• Reflect on a time when His presence was enough even when circumstances weren’t what you hoped.

When God Brings You Out

• Can you think of a time when God “brought you out” of something? Maybe a situation, relationship, or season that was painful or confusing at the time, but later revealed His goodness?

• How might He be doing that now?

• Pray and thank Him for being the God who not only brings you out but also brings you in.

His Covenant 

• God walked the covenant path alone with Abram and it’s a picture of His   unbreakable promise to you. How does knowing that God keeps His word even when you falter bring you peace today?

• Write down one promise of God that you want to hold onto this week

Faith That Pleases God

• Genesis 15:6 says Abram “believed the LORD.”

  Where is God asking you to simply believe right now even when you can’t see the outcome?

• End your journal time with a prayer of faith…

  “Lord, I believe You are who You say You are, and You will do what You’ve promised.”

Closing Reflection

Throughout this week, remember:

God is your shield that covers you in every storm.

He is your reward and your treasure above all else.

And when He brings you out, it could be because He’s leading you into something better. He is the same faithful God who walked the path alone for Abram and for you and me.

Heavenly Father, 

Thank you for keeping Your promises. You’ve kept every promise You have ever made. You are so faithful. I see how much you value trust…so much so that you counted in unto Abram for righteousness. Help us to trust you in everything we do. You will defend us, but we need to trust in You. Thank you for bringing us out of situations in order to bring us in to something better for us. Above all, we praise you for being our shield, our reward, and our treasure.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

The Study of Job – Post Twelve

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Week 15 of the Devotional Series 

The Study of Job: Week 12 

*Note – As we continue our journey through the Bible in chronological order, this is our 12th and final week in the book of Job. Though this is Week 15 overall, we’re completing the book of Job today. *

Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: Job 40 – 42

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 40 – “The Wisdom of Silence and the Strength of Trust”

Chapter 41 – “The Creator of Terrifying Things”

Chapter 42 – “Restored Through Repentance and Forgiveness”

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — “I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee.” Job 42:2 

I Do – Watch Me Study

Job Chapter 40

“The Wisdom of Silence and the Strength of Trust”

(Read Job Chapter 40 First) 

God continues His conversation with Job, asking him to answer after all of his complaints and questions. Job had been eager to defend himself even to the point of seeming to “judge” God’s motives. But now, after being reminded of God’s greatness, Job answers in a whole new way.

“Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. Once have I spoken; but I will not answer: yea, twice; but I will proceed no further.” (Job 40:4–5)

Here we see Job’s humility. He admits he has spoken too much in his grief and confusion. He thought he understood, but now he realizes that he does not. Instead of continuing to argue, he chooses silence.

One thing we can learn from this is… A mark of spiritual maturity is knowing when to stop talking and start listening to God. We often crave explanations, but sometimes the most faithful response is to trust God’s wisdom rather than demand answers. Silence before God is wisdom, not weakness. 

God then continues by challenging Job with questions of power and authority: Can Job clothe himself in majesty and glory? Can he humble the proud or bring justice by his own strength? The obvious answer is no. Only God has that authority.

Then the Lord points Job to His creation. Behemoth, a massive, untamed creature that relies fully on God’s provision. God feeds him from the earth, sustains him with water, and gives him comfort and ease. 

“Behold, he drinketh up a river, and hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his mouth.” (Job 40:23)

Notice those words: “hasteth not” and “trusteth.”

Behemoth trusts the provision of God.

Job (and we) are being reminded to live the same way. We shouldn’t rush ahead in fear and demand answers, but trust in God’s care.

Journal & Reflection:

• Where in my life am I tempted to keep talking instead of quietly listening to God?

• What situations make me anxious, where I need to learn from Behemoth to “hasten not” and “trust”?

• How might silence, humility, and trust change the way I walk with God this week?

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We Do – Let’s Study Together

Job Chapter 41

“The Creator of Terrifying Things”

(Read Job Chapter 41 First) 

In Job 41, God describes the mighty Leviathan, a sea creature unlike anything Job could imagine. God paints a vivid picture: sharp teeth, impenetrable scales, fiery breath, a heart of stone, and a fearlessness that terrifies even the strongest warriors. Leviathan is so untouchable that even iron bends before him like straw. No one dares to stir him up….and yet God says, “I made him.”

Here’s the point God is making to Job: If you tremble at Leviathan, remember that he is just one of My creatures. How much greater is My power as his Creator?

This verse really spoke to me…“He beholdeth all high things: he is a king over all the children of pride” (Job 41:34). Pride is pictured as something dangerous that puts us under the rule of a terrifying master. This verse made me think that when we walk in pride, we let something strong and destructive have dominion over us.

But humility brings freedom. Job had to learn that lesson. After hearing God’s questions and descriptions, Job stopped arguing, stopped demanding answers, and simply bowed in silence. Since chapter 40, when Job admitted he was vile and said he would lay his hand over his mouth, he hasn’t spoken another word to God. But keep reading, because in the very last chapter of Job, he does speak one more time. And what he says is powerful.

Journaling Question:

What might it look like today for me to “lay my hand over my mouth” and to stop explaining and defending myself and simply trust God?

Let’s remember….The same God who created the fearsome and untouchable Leviathan is the One who lovingly holds your life in His hands. That’s both humbling and comforting. If He has power over the most terrifying things He created, then surely He has power over the struggles, fears, and battles in your life today.

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You Do – Apply It Personally

Job Chapter 42

“Restored Through Repentance and Forgiveness”

(Read Job Chapter 42 First) 

Job finally speaks again after hearing God’s powerful words. This time, Job’s response is different because his heart is humbled.

He says, “I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee” (Job 42:2). Job acknowledges God’s sovereignty and that nothing is hidden from Him.

In verse 3, Job repeats God’s earlier question from Job 38:2: “Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge?” This time Job admits, “That was me. I spoke without understanding.” Job confesses that he had spoken about things too wonderful for him to comprehend.

In verse 5, Job says: “I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee.” He had heard of God before, but now he truly sees Him, meaning Job now has a deeper, clearer understanding of God’s greatness, holiness, and wisdom. That new vision of God leads Job to repentance: “Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes” (v. 6).

Sometimes God allows hardships to open our eyes so that we see Him more clearly than we ever did before. Think of a time in your life when trials gave you a new perspective of who God is.

Journal Prompt:

• What’s one area in your life where you’ve had to admit, “I spoke without   knowledge”?

• How has God used a hard season to deepen your understanding of Him?

After Job’s repentance, God turns to Job’s friends. He rebukes Eliphaz and the others for speaking wrongly about Him: “My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath” (Job 42:7).

God commands them to bring offerings and to have Job pray for them. Notice this….God would only accept Job’s prayer on their behalf. What an honor! And what humility from Job, who forgave his friends and prayed for them despite the pain they had caused him.

This next verse is so powerful! “And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before” (Job 42:10).

Forgiveness and obedience unlock blessing. When Job prayed for those who wronged him, God restored him abundantly. If we want to remain in God’s favor, we must be willing to forgive and pray even for those who have hurt us.

Journal Prompt:

• Who in your life do you need to forgive?

• How might praying for that person change both them and you?

The closing verses of Job show God’s abundant restoration. Job’s family and friends return to comfort him. God blesses him with even greater wealth, livestock, and children. His daughters, Jemimah, Kezia, and Keren-happuch, are described as the most beautiful in the land, and Job even gives them an inheritance alongside their brothers, a countercultural sign of overflowing blessing.

Job lives to see four generations and dies “old and full of days.” His story, which began with unimaginable loss, ends with restoration, joy, and honor.

Job’s story reminds us that suffering isn’t the end of the story for God’s people. When we stay humble, repentant, forgiving, and obedient, we open the door for God’s blessing and restoration.

Journal Prompt:

• Where in your life do you need to repent and turn back to God?

• How does Job’s story give you hope for the “happy ending” God is writing in your own life?

Key Takeaway:

Repentance brings restoration. Forgiveness unlocks blessing. Obedience invites God’s favor. Like Job, may we walk humbly with God, forgive freely, and trust Him to restore in His perfect time.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

If you’ve gone through this study with us, you’ve just completed not only reading but studying out the entire book of Job. That is something to celebrate! Job is one of the hardest books of the Bible, and you have faithfully dug into its rich truths.

Next, in our chronological reading plan, we’ll be heading back to the book of Genesis where we’ll see God’s hand in creation, His covenant promises, and His faithfulness through the lives of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph.

Let’s take the lessons from Job of trust, humility, and perseverance into the story of beginnings as we continue walking through God’s Word together.

Heavenly Father,

I want to thank You for guiding us through the book of Job. We have learned so many truths that we can carry with us and apply to our own lives. As we continue on in our study of the Bible, I pray that You would open our eyes to see clearly what You want to teach us through Your Word. Lord, I lift up the Kirk family. Please give them peace and comfort that passes all understanding. Thank You for the Christian movement and revival You began in Charlie Kirk’s heart, and I ask that You would fill us with boldness to keep it going. We’re seeing people saved, churches filling with first-time visitors, and believers all around the world emboldened to speak Your name like never before, and I’m so grateful.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen