The LORD had said to Abram, "LEAVE your native COUNTRY , your RELATIVES and your father's HOUSEHOLD , and go to the land that I WILL show you. Genesis 12:1
Have you ever felt God asking you to do something that would cause you to abandon all familiarity? At this pivotal moment in Abram’s life, God was pushing Abram completely out of his comfort zone. Many times, when we feel like it’s time for a complete transition we wonder, “Is this really you, God?” We can convince ourselves that God couldn’t possibly want us to “start over.”
However, if you read on, you will see that Abram immediately follows the command.
He listens. He believes. He moves.
Not understanding the full plan, Abram decides in His heart to completely follow Gods plan for His life.
It’s clear that Abram has made a choice to be willing and obedient. He makes a choice that if It’s God’s plan, it must be good!
It’s during times of transitions that we must ask ourselves do we really trust God. Are we really living the Christian life that we proclaim?
Over the last few weeks, God’s really been illuminating this verse in heart when it comes to transition.
“If you are WILLING and OBEDIENT, you will eat the good things of the land;” Isaiah 1:19
Willing= Heart Condition/True Desire
Obedient = Action
Willing + Obedient=God’s Favor
Many have come to do things because they HAVE to. They serve God, go to church, etc to “check the box.” They are obedient, but their hearts are not willing. In many ways, this reminds me of the military family that HAS to move. Although their heart is not happy to move across country, out of obligation, they leave behind all familiarity to follow their military orders. Others, however, want to do good what God’s called them to do. Yet, because of life’s responsibilities or others thoughts they disregard what God is calling them to do. They allow disappointments, fears, and a lack of trust in God’s plan to keep them from moving forward. They are willing, but not obedient. However, God is looking to bless those who listen and do. Those who want to and choose to. Willing and obedient. True Victory. No excuses. No waiting until I get right. No “it’s not my season.” Just pure, God, your will be done. When our hearts and actions line up to His will, we SHALL eat the “good of the land.” We shall have favor! We shall experience increase. We shall possess all the promises God has for our life.
This is exactly where we see Abram. Willing and obedient to do all God called him to do, Abram makes a choice to leave his comfort zone and run straight towards God’s promises.
God wants to bless you extravagantly, but He is asking you to be a willing vessel. He is asking you to trust Him for the plan, even when you don’t understand it.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.