Genesis 15:1-6 recounts a powerful conversation between God and Abraham. In this passage, God reassures Abraham of His promise, telling him, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” Abraham, though longing for a child, questions God about his future, to which God responds with a profound statement: “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them. So shall your offspring be.”
This moment encapsulates the essence of faith—believing in the promises of God even when circumstances seem impossible. Abraham, despite his doubts and uncertainties, believed God’s words. His faith was not based on what he could see in the present but on the unwavering trust in the One who promised.
During this Advent season, we should reflect on the significance of faith in God’s promises. Like the stars that Abraham couldn’t fully count, God’s promises often exceed our understanding and imagination. They transcend our limitations, offering hope and assurance in times of uncertainty.
Advent is a season of waiting and anticipation—a time to be reminded of the faithfulness of God throughout history. Just as God fulfilled His promise to Abraham by providing him with descendants as numerous as the stars, God remains faithful to His promises today.
Moreover, the heart of Advent is about the fulfillment of God’s promise—the birth of Jesus Christ. And, the ultimate promise of salvation and redemption for humanity.
Jesus embodies the fulfillment of countless promises made by God throughout history. His birth, life, death, and resurrection are a testament to God’s unwavering faithfulness. In Christ, we find the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring salvation and eternal life to all who believe in Him.
As we journey through this season of Advent, let’s take inspiration from Abraham’s faith. Let’s hold steadfast to the promises of God, even when circumstances may seem uncertain or challenging. Just as Abraham’s faith was counted as righteousness, so is ours. And our trust in God’s promises brings us closer to Him and enables us to experience His goodness and faithfulness.
May this season ignite and strengthen our faith, reminding us that God is faithful and His promises endure forever. Let’s embrace the hope and assurance that God fulfills His promises in His perfect timing and in His perfect way.
After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” But Abram said, “Sovereign LORD, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir.” Then the word of the LORD came to him: “This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir.” He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Abram believed the LORD, and he credited it to him as righteousness.
Genesis 15:1-6
