Tests as Part of God’s Will

Life Lessons: Tests as Part of God’s Will

Genesis 13:1—14:24

SITUATION: In response to God’s promise to give land and descendants, Abram’s family traveled from Haran through Canaan and Egypt (Genesis 11:27-12:20). God told them to avoid the land of Sodom, whose name became synonymous with gross sin (Genesis 13:13; 18:16-19:29). God would destroy that city, and Lot would barely escape.

OBSERVATION: Our decisions in life bear spiritual consequences. Lot selfishly chose the lush Jordan Valley and got in trouble (captured by a gang of marauding kings). Abram was willing to take second choice and God blessed him.

INSPIRATION: Jim spent eight years in prison for murder. He was a drug dealer. In prison, Jim found a second chance in Christ. Now a minister, Jim often speaks to high school students about the decision to take drugs. “Don’t let anyone kid you,” he tells them. “Drugs are fun, drugs make you feel good, and getting high is fun. You know the beginning of drugs, and it’s fun. But I know the end of drugs. . . .” And then Jim tells them about the decisions that nearly ruined his life forever.

     While most of us will never self- destruct in the way Jim did, we all face the choice of doing things that look like fun, but which result in a life of pain—divorce, financial disaster, disease, and relationship problems. . . . .

     The big question for most of us: “Is life in the fast lane where God wants me to be?” 

APPLICATION: Would what you watch on television be popular in Sodom? Turn off shows that program you to lust or to enjoy violence. Rent movies carefully. We cannot serve God wholeheartedly and eagerly fulfill our sinful desires at the same time.

EXPLORATION: Tests as part of God’s Will: Exodus 17:1-7; Matthew 4:1-11; 1 Corinthians 10:1-13; 2 Timothy 2:14-3:9; Hebrews 4:12-16; and James 1