God’s transparency and friendship are hallmarks of the relationship between the Lord and Abraham. God discusses with the two angels whether to involve Abraham in His plan. This brief conversation offers insight into the Lord’s desire to include us in His work.
Genesis 18:16 Then the men got up from their meal and looked out toward Sodom. As they left, Abraham went with them to send them on their way. 17 “Should I hide my plan from Abraham?” the Lord asked. 18 “For Abraham will certainly become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth will be blessed through him. 19 I have singled him out so that he will direct his sons and their families to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. Then I will do for Abraham all that I have promised.” [1]
When we think God has forgotten us, the Psalmist reveals that we are always on the Lord’s mind. Psalm 139: 17 How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! [2]
Seeking to Know God’s Heart
As we grow in our relationship with the Lord, He instills in us a desire to seek Him. Matthew 6:33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. [3] Seeking God’s kingdom and His righteousness means living in an ongoing relationship with the Lord that leads to repentance and a heart turned toward Him.
The world chases after material things, which can often blind people to the importance of faith. As we seek the Lord’s will, He will enable us to accomplish the plans He has for our lives.
Following God’s will transforms our hearts and influences those around us. When I began seeking the Lord regularly, I gradually left my old life behind and focused more on God and His will. A similar change of heart is evident in the life of Abraham, who is centered on fulfilling the will of his heavenly Father. Consider the opportunities the Lord has in store for us as we surrender our will to His.
Being a Friend of God
1 Samuel 13:14 describes David as a man after God’s own heart. To be a man after the heart of God means to pursue God’s will, value the same things our Lord does, and please Him through the way we live our lives. To the average believer, this may seem impossible, but it is not. Philippians 4:13For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. [4]
Jesus tells us that we become His friends as we obey Him. John 15:14You are my friends if you do what I command.[5] When we have a heart for God and truly seek Him, we desire to do what He commands.
To learn more about God’s transparency and friendship, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/interceding-like-abraham
[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.