The Year was 1986…

Life. Interrupted. Week 5 Day 1

When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, "I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless. I will confirm my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers." Genesis 17:1-2 (NIV)

The Lord appeared to Abram 24 years after the original promise was given (Genesis 12:1-5). What were you doing 24 years ago, which was 1986?

Ronald Reagan was president. The Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated 73 seconds after launch. Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier fled Haiti. Out of Africa won best picture. Geraldo opened Al Capone’s secret vault discovering only a bottle of moonshine. Hands Across America reached from New York City to Long Beach, CA. Best New Artist went to Bruce Hornsby and the Range.

How would you feel if God’s plan for you had been on hold for 24 years? Would you continue to believe? Would you be tempted to write it off to indigestion?

God’s plan for Abram involved far more than the birth of a son. Abram was tested time and again. Abram struggled with fear and faith. Abram was a person just like you and me. Abram’s life is an example for us. His life was not a perfect life. Abram had flaws just like anybody else.

Abram’s life is an example of learning to depend on God rather than relying on oneself. That’s a lesson we continue to learn every day.

What parts of your life do you feel are well within your control? Should they be? What parts seem completely out of control? What do you need to surrender to God and trust Him for?

What have you been waiting for that hasn’t been delivered? What might have started 24 or more years ago for you? Do you still trust God to help you see it through?