Moving Forward with Faith
Lessons from Abraham and Lot
In life, it’s often tempting to linger in the comfort of the past, to dwell on what was rather than focus on what could be. Yet, as challenging as it may seem, the essence of progress lies in moving forward, even when it means leaving behind familiar territory. This sentiment is not just worldly wisdom but is deeply rooted in spiritual truths, echoing the guidance found in the scriptures.
The Bible teaches us the importance of moving forward when the Lord directs us to. Abraham, often referred to as the father of faith, exemplifies this principle in his journey with God. In Genesis 12, God commands Abraham to leave his country, his people, and his father’s household and go to the land that He would show him. This call to move forward was not just a physical relocation but a spiritual journey of faith and obedience.
Abraham obeyed, taking his nephew Lot with him. However, as their herds grew and their prosperity increased, conflict arose between Abraham’s herdsmen and Lot’s. Recognizing the need to part ways to avoid further strife, Abraham graciously gave Lot the choice of the land. Lot, driven by selfish desires, chose the fertile plain of Jordan, leaving Abraham with the less desirable territory.
Genesis 13:14-17 (NIV) records God’s promise to Abraham after Lot’s departure: “The Lord said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, ‘Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever. I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted.'”
Abraham’s willingness to let go of Lot and trust in God’s provision paved the way for the fulfillment of God’s promises in his life. He didn’t allow the past or present circumstances to hinder him from moving forward into the destiny God had prepared for him.
On the contrary, Lot’s story serves as a cautionary tale of what happens when we cling to the past or disobey God’s directives. Despite being warned by angels to flee the impending destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and not to look back, Lot’s wife couldn’t resist the temptation to glance back, and as a consequence, she turned into a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26).
This illustrates the danger of being consumed by nostalgia or disobedience when God calls us to move forward. Looking back can prevent us from fully embracing the blessings and opportunities that lie ahead, ultimately hindering our spiritual growth and fulfillment of God’s purpose in our lives.
As believers, we are called to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7), trusting in God’s guidance and provision every step of the way. When we obey His voice and step out in faith, we partner with Him in His divine plan for our lives, experiencing His faithfulness and abundant blessings.
Let us, therefore, learn from the examples of Abraham and Lot, choosing to let go of the past, obey God’s commands, and move forward with unwavering faith. As we do, we can rest assured that God is faithful to fulfill His promises and lead us into a future filled with hope and purpose.
In conclusion, let us pray:
Heavenly Father, help us to trust in Your guidance and obey Your commands, even when it requires leaving behind the familiar and stepping into the unknown. Give us the strength to let go of the past and embrace the future You have prepared for us. May we walk in faith, experiencing Your blessings and fulfilling Your purposes for our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
GOD LOVES YOU SO MUCH.
At His Feet,
Prophet Ijeoma
