“Imperfect Saints” Pt 5 of 5:
Every person has some flaws and shortcomings. Be careful how you label yours because often what we call bad habits; God calls them sin. Time was spent on Abraham’s lies this week … for two reasons. One, a respected and admired man in the Old Testament was chosen by God to be a prophet. Chosen, but he wasn’t perfect. Like so many, Abraham was deceived by Satan thinking rationalizing his lying would protect him and his wife Sarah.
The second reason is to remind everyone, lying is a destructive sin told generally as a coverup for a previous sin. Lies hurt and divide families and other relationships. It creates mistrust and if not surrendered to God could and will destroy our character. In Genesis 20, God used a pagan king, Abimelech, to expose Abrahams’ sin.
Once Abraham confessed his sin, the king showed him grace and showered the prophet with gifts (20:14-18). God used Abimelech to show that He does not disown his children when they sin, just as loving parents do not disown their children when they do wrong. But it’s important to see, God did not ignore Abraham’s sin. Nor will He ours.
It’s comforting to know that Abraham’s failure did not change his standing before God. The Lord called him a “prophet,” which means spokesperson for God. Abraham is mentioned in Hebrews 11:8-19. This chapter is known as the “Hall of Faith.” A long list of people who honored and served God are listed in this chapter. As you read it, you’ll discover Abraham’s sin is not mentioned. There’s only praise for his many demonstrations of faith.
The chapter closes with Abraham praying for Abimelech and verses 17-18 illustrate God’s love and grace for both of these men. Abraham was forgiven of his sins and became a spiritual giant in the Old Testament. The Lord also healed Abimelech’s wife and daughters so they could have children because the Lord had closed the womb in Abimelech’s household because of Abraham’s wife, Sarah.
In closing, let’s remember God had a plan for Abraham life and didn’t give up on him even though he strayed. God has a plan for your life too. Maybe you aren’t as close to God as you should be. Many people lie about being a Christian. God’s love never fails and He’ll never give up on you. Like Abraham, Moses, David, Paul, Peter, and others who failed, He stands with His arms wide open ready to receive you back into the fold. He’ll never give up on you.
Pastor Carnes
