January 9, 2019
Genesis 25:19
This is the account of the family line of Abraham’s son Isaac.  Abraham became the father of Isaac,
New International Version (NIV)
                “Father Abraham had many sons, and many sons had father Abraham . . .”   This line from a children’s song is true.  Abraham’s name means father.  His first son was Ishmael who became the father of twelve sons.  Then his second son Isaac had two sons.  This is not to mention the sons Abraham had through Keturah, the least known of the three mothers who bore his sons.   His sons also had sons.  Quickly a man who was childless most of his life became the progenitor of nations. 

                To this day both Arabs and Jews trace their lineage to Abraham.  We Christians lay claim to being sons and daughters of Abraham as well, but not through our genetics.  Once when John the Baptist was having a discussion with the Jewish leaders who prided themselves as sons of Abraham, he said, “God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones” (Matthew 3:9). 

                Who are Abraham’s children today?  He still has genetic descendants in the Middle East and around the world.  To this day, the Israelis lay claim to the promises God made to Abraham.  In his letter to the Galatians, Paul says  that “those who have faith are children of Abraham” (3:7).  All nations are blessed through Abraham.  The blessing belongs to those who rely on faith.  Father Abraham has many sons and daughters.  Do you believe in Christ?  You are one of them.  And so am I.  We really should praise the Lord!

Pray with me:  
Faithful Father, increase our faith today we pray.  Like Abraham we have believed and you have counted us righteous.  Help us to live our lives for the city not made with human hands.   Increase our longing for your better country, the heavenly one.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen. 
This year our Every Day with Jesus readings will follow The Bible Project Read Scripture Plan.  Copies of this reading plan are available at Tallowood Baptist Church, or download 
the app at readscripture.org.  Read through the Bible with us in 2019!
Joyfully, 
Duane 

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