January 18

January 18.

Abraham & Deception -- Abraham's fear of people vs. Sarah's faith in God.

Today's Readings:

Reading 1: Genesis 12:10-20

Reading 2: Genesis 20

Reading 3: 1 Peter 3:1-6

Fear of man can be a terrible thing. In Abraham's life, it is closely connected with faith and becomes something of a repeating pattern (today's readings bring together two occasions when Abram/Abraham makes the same mistake. One is in the future in the chronology of his life). Despite great faith, Abraham also commits some obvious sins because he is afraid of those around him, especially if they have authority and power.

God takes care of Sarah, though, showing the fruit of her own faith in Him. And the two of them become examples for all of us (not in acceding to fear, but in learning to relate rightly together as husband and wife).

So today, let there be no deception in your life, only faith, and trust in God!

Have a great day!

Mark.