Day 38. What Abram sacrificed to "go"

Genesis 12:4

So Abram departed as the Lord had spoken to him, and Lot went with him. And Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.

God approached Abram. Abram heard. This is no minor miracle in and of itself. The voice of God speaking, and mere humans being able to perceive, comprehend, and respond.

In that encounter, God promised blessing to Abram. And for every sacrifice he made, God promised that he would provide ample return on the investment. Again, evidence of God's providence in the story.

Abram did not go empty-handed. He had over 300 warriors (Gen 14:14). He had servants. He had a prominent nephew (Lot), and likely had others. He had his beloved Sarai. He also went with leadership skills and the respect of his traveling camp. He was able to feed this group, and they willingly moved with him.

Abram was set up for success in his journey. But even with preparation and God's presence, do not overlook the sacrifices that faith may require in any mission endeavor.

Abram left his comfort zone. He moved from his homeland. He sacrificed his father's religion. He forged a new identity. He went from known to stranger, leaving behind social connections and cultural influence. He went from farmer to wandering rancher, sacrificing land for freedom to move. His father died on the way, buried in "the-in-between." He had no son or heir. He had to negotiate with kings and city-overlords, sacrificing assured respect for conflict management opportunities. He fought in battle to protect his family (even if they were an inconvenience to him). He went, at age of 75, with his most physically promising days behind him.

And yet, the best was still to come in his life. But, there was no way to know, see, or experience the "best" in this calling without the sacrifice of something "good" that he already had.

What are you giving up to follow God? What good things in your life will be transformed in the God's best? What do you think God is offering you as you prepare for this trip?

PRAYER: Heavenly father, thank you for the calling to go wherever you lead. Show us what we need to take on our trip. Show us what we need to leave behind. Teach us to choose the best over "just fine" and over "good." Help us to be ready to "go" when the time is right.

Amen.