SCRIPTURE:
Genesis 12:1-9
Mark 10:29-30
Journey [Part II]
When I moved to seminary it was the first time I left home. Some of you left home when you were 18 but I left home after undergrad. It’s just what Spanish people do lol. Truthfully, the only reason I left Miami was because I felt as though God called me to leave. Otherwise I would have probably stayed in Miami.
I had a hard time at first. But I always connected to the story of Abraham. I always read his story and saw it as my own story. I would constantly remind myself that I left my country (Miami is technically another country), my people, and my household because God wanted to bless me.And you know what. Even though there were many moments where I struggled, I look at my life today and I truly feel blessed.
I love living in Orlando. It’s perfect for a family.
I love the church and my friends. I love Wesley. I have a loving wife and kids who WONT LEAVE ME ALONE! (because they love me). And I have a really nice house. I grew up in small apartments in low income neighborhoods so in comparison, my house is like a mansion.
I’m blessed. And so are you.
Especially if you put yourself in Abraham’s shoes. Use this story to remind yourself that God is with you.
If you feel far from home, far from friends, and if you feel like life is changing too fast, read today’s scripture and remind yourself that God is with you every step of the way. Receive the words God spoke to Abraham as your own. Pretend it’s God speaking to you. This scripture kept me sane when I was confused.
If you notice in this scripture one of the first things Abraham faced on his journey was a famine. (verse 10) Interesting. God blesses Abraham, tells him to move to another place, and then a famine. Doesn’t seem like such a blessed life. Well, sometimes life throws famines, pandemics, unemployment…. and in Abrahams case near death experiences. It’s all part of the journey.
When John Wesley died his last words were ,
“The best of all is that God is with us.”
That’s probably what I would tell Abraham during his season escaping a famine. I’d say “Abraham, God is with you even though you’re in a terrible situation. God’s promises will come to fruition in your life. Just stay faithful.” You know something Abraham did not. We know from reading the story that God eventually did bless Abraham. He just needed to stay the course.So stay the course with this mindset. God is with you. God loves you.
God has not asked you to uproot your life to not give you everything in return tenfold. This is another scripture that I would reflect on when I was struggling in seminary. Mark 10:29-30
It’s very similar to today’s reading. Love you guys.
PS
If you are a Bible nerd, notice the similarities between Abraham and Jesus. Both fled to Egypt. Try and notice more similarities. Dig Deeper and ask the question “Why did Jesus experience a similar life to Abraham?” I can write another small devo about that but it’ll be another 2 pages or so. Until tomorrow! Love you guys and please let me know how Wesley can help.
There are three ways we can help.
Prayer. Please send us prayer requests.
Money. If you need financial assistance please don’t be afraid to reach out!
Conversations. Reach out if you need some encouragement!