Genesis. O, what a tangled web we weave... Sarai was so desperate to have a son that she suggested her servant as a concubine to Abram. Multiples wives and concubines were common in that part of the world -- still are -- but the decision to take charge (since God was taking so long and must have surely forgotten about them) resulted in pain that continues to this day. The modern Arabs came through the line of Hagar and Ishmael. Over the centuries, tens of thousands have died in the conflicts and it all began with Sarai's impatience and Abram's cooperation. This is a strong reminder for me when I get ahead of God.
God reminded Abram of His promise in Chapter 17. To affirm His promise, God changed Abe's name from Abram (exalted father) to Abraham (father of a great multitude). He also changed Sarai (lady; princess) to Sarai (lady/princess of a multitude). Throughout Scripture, we will see names changed to demonstrate a new facet of God's design for individuals. Abraham accepted the sign of the covenant by circumcising the males. This cutting of the foreskin was symbolic of cutting off their old life and accepting the new life God was offering them.
In chapter 18, God got specific: "At this time next year..." This chapter also shows Abraham's intercession, done in the form of bargaining common in that culture.
What speaks to you today?
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