Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission.

By Grace

Posted by Karah

Pause

Take a moment to acknowledge your dependence on God. Thank Him for loving you and saving you despite your faults.

Have you ever disobeyed your parents?

Have you ever told a lie?

Have you ever taken something that didn’t belong to you?

You probably answered yes to all three of those questions. Since you’ve already admitted to breaking three of the Ten Commandments, let’s agree that no one is capable of keeping the law to perfection, and we are all in need of God’s grace.

With that in mind, read Galatians 3:6-14 in your Bible.

“For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, because it is written: Everyone who does not continue doing everything written in the book of the law is cursed.”

—Galatians 3:10

Consider these questions:

Look at verses 10-11. What do these verses teach you about trying to earn salvation based on your own merit? Explain.

What does it mean to say that Jesus redeemed us from the curse of the law? Explain.

List some things that people think will make them right with God. How do those things compare to what these verses teach about salvation?

The Point

You are saved by grace through faith.

Respond

Abraham was saved because of his faith in God, not because of his own effort or because he was a good person. You are saved because of your faith in God.

In your journal, write out a brief testimony of how you came to the point of putting your faith in Christ. Make a commitment to share at least a part of your faith journey with one person this week. Jot down that person’s name in the margin.

As a Christian, you’re a bearer of good news that sets people free, not just a rule-keeper or rule-giver. Which do the people closest to you consider you to be? Why? What changes, if any, do you need to make to be a bearer of hope?

For further study, read Ephesians 2:6-10 and Romans 3:9-20,27-31.

Memory Verse

Use several 10-minute breaks throughout your day to review Romans 4:23-25. Repeat this process every day for five days, then recite the verses and see how you do!

Behind the Story

Paul wrote Galatians as a letter to the churches in Galatia. In it, he warned the new believers of the false teachings of the Judaizers. The Judaizers were a group of Jewish Christians that believed the Old Testament laws and rituals still applied to believers, especially the new Gentile converts. Paul wanted to make certain that all of his readers understood that salvation came through faith alone, and that through faith in Christ, they were free from the bondage of the Law.

Posted in Boys, Devotions | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Weekly Devotions | Leave a reply

Shock and Awe

Posted by Karah

Pause

Contemplate this quote:

“Jesus Christ our Lord surrendered in order that He might win; He destroyed His enemies by dying for them and conquered death by allowing death to conquer Him.” —A.W. Tozer

Has a complete stranger ever paid for your meal? If so, your first reaction was likely one of shock. It’s rare that someone would show such generosity. Then, typically, the shock turns into gratitude. Our hearts are overwhelmed that someone would pay a debt that he or she didn’t owe. Someone paying for a meal he or she didn’t eat is an occasional life experience. But, Jesus not only paid a debt that He didn’t owe; He paid a debt that we could never even begin to pay.

Think about what you’ve learned over the last few weeks. Mull over how God provided a sacrifice in place of Isaac. Then, realize that your sin also demands a sacrifice, and God has already provided it: in Jesus, His only Son.

Read Romans 4:13-25 in your Bible.

“He was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.” —Romans 4:25

Who delivered up Jesus? Ultimately, it was God Himself who brought Jesus’ crucifixion to pass in order to reveal His plan of salvation.

Trespasses is from a Greek word meaning “unintentional error” or “willful sin.” What does this word help you to understand about the amount of sin Jesus’ death has defeated? Explain.

Justification comes from the Greek word “diakaiosis” which means “acquittal for Christ’s sake.” Think about that. If that is true, what does it mean in the life of a believer?

The Point

Our sin called for a sacrifice. God provided it in Jesus.

Respond

Our sin demanded a sacrifice, and God provided it in His Son. Jesus died for our sin, and He rose again so that we could be made right with God. That is the gospel in its simplest form.

The gospel demands a response. Have you placed your faith in Jesus and His finished work?

Perhaps your first reaction to God’s act of grace is shock because you know you deserved death and hell. If so, allow God’s grace to affect the daily decisions you make. Make spending time with your Savior a daily priority.

Perhaps you responded to God’s act of grace with gratitude. If so, write out a prayer thanking God for the mercy and grace that He has lavished on you.

For further study, read Isaiah 53; Romans 3:23-26; and 2 Corinthians 5:18-21.

Behind the Story

The doctrine of substitutionary atonement holds that because of God’s perfect justice, the only satisfactory payment for the sin of humankind is death. Instead of leaving all of humanity without a means of payment, God sent His only Son, Jesus, to die as a substitute in our place. Through this perfect sacrifice, our sins are atoned, God’s justice is satisfied, and we can have eternal life.

He Will Provide

Posted by Karah

Pause

Reflect on a time when God asked you to do something that was out of your comfort zone. What did that experience teach you?

As you read Genesis 22:4-19 today, picture the scene and imagine the emotions. With every step, Abraham knew that the time of sacrifice was drawing nearer. Imagine how much strength it took for Abraham to lift the knife over his son’s body. Abraham loved his son, but his faithfulness to God was greater.

“Then He said, ‘Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him. For now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from Me.’ Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught in the thicket by its horns. So Abraham went and took the ram and offered it as a burnt offering in place of his son. And Abraham named that place The Lord Will Provide, so today it is said: ‘It will be provided on the Lord’s mountain.'” —Genesis 22:12-14

Ask yourself:

What does this story teach you about what it means to be faithful to God? Do you have that kind of faithfulness? Why or why not?

What does this story teach you about God’s faithfulness? Why is it important that God was the one who provided the ram to sacrifice? Explain.

What sacrifices have you made in order to remain faithful to God?

The Point

God called for a sacrifice, but provided it Himself.

Respond

Being faithful to God will cost you. It may cost you relationships, friends, and influence. You will be forced to choose between the temptations of this world or faithfulness to God.

Take a moment to consider your personal boundaries. Do they conform to Scripture? Are you willing to make sacrifices to honor God’s faithfulness? Why or why not?

Pray about your willingness (or unwillingness) to sacrifice things in your life that do not honor God or keep you from being faithful to His calling on your life. Confess and repent, if you feel led. Don’t just go through the motions.

Behind the Story

Throughout the Old Testament, God revealed various names which described a certain characteristic of God. In Genesis 22:14, Abraham revealed one of God’s most beloved names, Jehovah Jireh, which means the Lord will provide. How has God been your Provider lately? Take some time to praise Him for that.

Sacrifice

Posted by Karah

Pause

Listen to the song “O the Blood” by Gateway Worship (God Be Praised Deluxe, 2010). Worship the Savior for His sacrifice on the cross.

Have you ever had to wait a long time for something you desperately wanted? How did you react when you finally got it? What emotions did you feel? Journal a few thoughts.

Now, imagine how you would feel if you were suddenly asked to throw away this treasured possession. That’s where we find Abraham today. He had waited 25 years for the son God had promised, and now God was asking Abraham to offer Isaac as a burnt offering.

“Take your son,” He said, “your only son Isaac, whom you love, go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.”

—Genesis 22:2

Read Genesis 22:1-3 in your Bible and consider these questions:

The sacrifice God called Abraham to give was great and came at a great cost. When have you seen someone give up something at a great cost to follow God? Jot down a few thoughts.

What is the biggest step of faith you have ever taken? Explain.

Now, read John 3:16 in your Bible.

In what ways is this verse similar to the story of Abraham and Isaac? Explain.

What does this verse teach you about redemption?

The Point

Redemption requires a sacrifice.

Respond

Isaac’s sacrifice was a test of faith for Abraham, but Jesus’ sacrifice is a means of faith for us. Without a sacrifice we cannot be saved, and Jesus became the perfect sacrifice so we could be redeemed.

Take a moment to praise God for the cross and the blood of Christ that covered your sin.

If you aren’t a Christian, know that Jesus laid down His life so that you could be redeemed from sin.

For further study, read “The Present” in The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd Jones.

Behind the Story

Interestingly, Isaac was described in these verses as Abraham’s only son. Even though Abraham was also the father of Ishmael, through Hagar, Isaac was God’s promised child and the bloodline that God would use to establish His people and His covenant. The word used to describe Isaac as Abraham’s only son is similar to the word used in John 3:16, which identifies Jesus as God’s only Son. This word doesn’t necessarily focus on birth order, but rather highlights the special nature of the birth.

Never Say Never

Posted by Karah

Pause

Reflect on a time in your life when God did something that otherwise seemed impossible. Thank Him for being that kind of God.

Through the latest medical technology, gifted physicians are able to place implants into patients’ ears that allow many of them to hear for the very first time. Can you imagine living in a world of silence, then suddenly hearing your own voice? What would be your first reaction? Journal a few thoughts.

Considering those emotions, read Genesis 18:1-15 and Genesis 21:1-7 in your Bible and thoughtfully answer the questions below.

“Is anything impossible for the Lord? At the appointed time I will come back to you, and in about a year she will have a son.” —Genesis 18:14

Examine Genesis 18:14, then reread Genesis 21:1-2. What impossible things did God promise and bring to fruition? According to human reasoning, what things could or should have stopped what God had promised from happening?

What do these verses teach you about God’s desire for His will to be accomplished and His plan of redemption to move forward?

Understanding that only God is able to do the impossible, how does this story encourage you in your relationship with God? Explain.

The Point

God does the impossible to bring about His story.

Respond

Regardless of the circumstances that you’re facing right now, be encouraged, knowing that God has the power to do things beyond your wildest dreams and imagination. Journal a bold prayer asking God to use these circumstances to draw you into a closer relationship with Him.

Ask God to give you the opportunity to share your story to encourage someone else who is facing similar circumstances.

For further study, read 1 Samuel 1:1-2:11 and Luke 1:5-25.

Behind the Story

While it is a miracle that Sarah was able to have a child at 90 years old, the greater miracle is that God created life in a womb that previously had been unable to produce life. On top of that, Abraham had waited 25 years for God to fulfill this promise. Throughout Scripture, God has demonstrated His power through unlikely means to accomplish His will in His own timing.

Stand in the Gap

Posted by Karah

Pause

Spend some time thanking God for all the ways He has shown you He is in control of your life this past week.

If you knew that a disaster was coming, what steps would you take to warn the people around you? Jot down your plan of action.

Now, read Genesis 18:16-33 in your Bible to see how Abraham responded in a similar situation.

“Then Abraham answered, “Since I have ventured to speak to the Lord—even though I am dust and ashes—suppose the 50 righteous lack five. Will you destroy the whole city for lack of five?” He replied, “I will not destroy it if I find 45 there.” —Genesis 18:27

Over the last few weeks you’ve learned about God being a covenant God—faithful and true to His word. Abraham understood that. So, when God told Abraham that judgment was coming to Sodom, Abraham believed Him.

But Abraham also knew that God is merciful, and he boldly and respectfully interceded on behalf of the residents of Sodom. That would be easy to understand if the people of Sodom had been godly or seeking to follow God. But it was a place of wickedness, full of people bent on pursuing sin. Still, Abraham stepped forward to intercede on their behalf.

Think about the world we live in. How is Abraham’s situation similar to ours? Explain.

As a Christian, you know that eternal judgment and destruction are coming to those who do not have a relationship with Jesus. What does today’s passage teach you about how you should live in light of that?

The Point

God is a God of mercy and redemption.

Respond

Do you have the courage to stand in the gap for the lost people around you? List the names of three people you know personally who don’t have a relationship with Christ.
Set aside a time this week devoted to praying specifically for those people. Know that you might be praying for weeks, months, or even years. Pray for opportunities for you and other believers to share your faith.

Behind the Story

Sodom and Gomorrah were two neighboring cities, probably located in the Valley of Siddim near the southern end of the Dead Sea. They were known for their sinfulness. Abraham’s nephew Lot made this place his home after a dispute between them (Gen. 13).⁴

⁴Trent Butler, “Soddom and Gomorrah,” Holman Bible Dictionary, studylight.org, [cited 20 April 2014]. Available from Internet: http://www.studylight.org

In Control

Posted by Karah

Pause

Read Proverbs 3:5-6. Personalize these verses and offer them to God as a prayer as you begin your quiet time today.

Can you recall a situation where you took matters into your own hands? What was the outcome? Journal your thoughts.

With that experience in mind, read Genesis 16:1-15 in your Bible.

“Sarai said to Abram, “Since the Lord has prevented me from bearing children, go to my slave; perhaps through her I can build a family.” And Abram agreed to what Sarai said.” —Genesis 16:2

Mull over the last few week’s devotions about the covenant God made with Abram. Part of that covenant was promised children. But God’s promise hadn’t come in the time frame they expected, so Sarai and Abram devised a plan to make it happen.

What do you think went through Abram and Sarai’s minds as they waited for this promise? Journal a few thoughts.

Do you know someone who has patiently prayed and waited for God to work something out in his or her life? What have you learned from that person’s example?

Abram and Sarai sought to take control of the situation. When have you done the same thing? How is that taking over a role that only God should have in our lives? Explain.

The Point

God is a covenant God who wants to use our lives to tell His story of redemption. We must let Him have control.

Respond

In what situations or circumstances are you trying to take control rather than trusting God? List anything the Holy Spirit brings to mind. Confess those things to God.

Ask God to help you to rest in His faithfulness in those situations. List two ways you’ll choose to do so this week.

Are you struggling to understand God’s plan for your life? For further study, read Jeremiah 29:11-13 and Proverbs 16:9.

Behind the Story

Sarai’s plan for a servant to have her child wasn’t out of the ordinary. Married women who were barren were often shamed, so it was common practice for a barren woman to give her servant to her husband. The children born to the servant women were considered the children of the wife.³

³Life Application Study Bible, NIV Version (Wheaton: Tyndale and Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1991), 32.

Faith=Righteousness

Posted by Karah

Pause

Sing praises to God today, worshiping Him for who He is and what He has done.

Reread Genesis 15:1-6 in your Bible, focusing on verse 6.

“Abram believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” —Genesis 15:6

The Hebrew word translated “believed” is a construction that means to place trust in someone with confidence. What does that help you to understand about Abraham’s faith in God and His promises? Explain.

When the word righteousness is used in the Bible, it means having right standing before God. How did Abraham find right standing before God, according to Genesis 15:6?

With Genesis 15:6 in mind, read Romans 4:1-19 in your Bible. Focus on verse 13.

“For the promise to Abraham or to his descendants that he would inherit the world was not through the law, but through the righteousness that comes by faith.” —Romans 4:13

The Jews were relying on their heritage as God’s chosen people and their adherence to the law to make them right before God. But Paul argued that those things weren’t even what made Abraham, the father of the Jews, righteous.

According to these verses, what made Abraham right before God? Explain.

What things do people in the world think will make them right before God? List a few ideas.

What do you depend on to declare you right before God? Why?

The Point

Our covenant God makes people righteous by their faith.

Respond

Righteousness is about faith, not about doing good deeds or being a good person. There is only one way to be justified before God and that is by faith.

Consider what you base your standing before God on. Jesus died and rose again for your salvation and believing that is the only way to truly know God. Does your faith rest in this truth?

As a Christian, do you sometimes find yourself trying to earn more of God’s favor or living like your faith is a checklist of rules and good deeds? Confess this attitude to God. Ask Him to remind you of all He has done to save you.

Behind the Story

Imputation is a fancy, theological word that means reckoning something to another person. This is exactly what happened with Abraham—God credited to Abraham something he did not have in himself—and is also what happens when we accept Jesus as our Savior.²

²Trent Butler, “Impute,” Holman Bible Dictionary, studylight.org, [cited 19 April 2014]. Available from Internet: http://www.studylight.org.

Set Apart

Posted by Karah

Pause

Ponder this quote from Charles Spurgeon as you begin your time with God:

“God has set apart His people from before the foundation of the world to be His chosen and peculiar inheritance.”

The Masters is a major golf tournament played annually in Augusta, Ga. Winners receive a unique prize—a green jacket—that sets them apart as members of an elite group. Only the 300 or so members of the August National Golf Club and Masters winners are allowed to wear the jacket.

Think about that idea of being set apart as you read Genesis 17:9-27 in your Bible.

“Throughout your generations, every male among you at eight days old is to be circumcised. This includes a slave born in your house and one purchased with money from any foreigner. The one who is not your offspring, a slave born in your house, as well as one purchased with money, must be circumcised. My covenant will be marked in your flesh as an everlasting covenant.” —Genesis 17:12-13

By commanding Abraham and his descendants to be circumcised, God was creating an outward sign that would set His covenant people apart from the pagan world.

Circumcision wasn’t a new practice God created for this occasion; other ancient cultures practiced it, usually to signify ownership or loyalty to an authority. So, when God instructed Abraham and his descendants to do this, what was He really asking of them? Explain.

God gave circumcision a new meaning by making it the symbol of His covenant with a specific, set apart group of people. Do you think God is still calling people to be set apart for Him? Why or why not?

The Point

God’s people are distinctly set apart. He is still setting people apart today.

Respond

If you have a relationship with Christ, you have been called to a set-apart life. Record a short statement of commitment and loyalty below.

What does being set apart look like for Christians today? For further study, check out 1 Peter 2:9-10 and Romans 12:2.

Behind the Story

In Scripture, the concept of circumcision is sometimes used metaphorically. In Deuteronomy 10:16 and Jeremiah 4:4, circumcision of the heart refers to total devotion to God. The uncircumcised were regarded as those who are insensitive to God’s leadership. Circumcision, then, was an external sign of singular devotion to God.

Fully Committed

Posted by Karah

Pause

Prepare to hear from the Lord by getting rid of anything that could distract you. Ask God to speak to you through His Word today.

How do you handle stress, anxiety, or fear? Circle all that apply.

Pray

Think about it constantly

Read Scripture

Focus on something else

Exercise

Ignore the stress

Rely on comforts

Talk with a wise friend

Stay busy

It’s easy to let fear and stress overwhelm us and take our eyes off God and His promises. That was even true of Abram.

Read Genesis 15:1-21 in your Bible. As you read, underline Abram’s responses that reveal his anxiety and fear.

“On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, “I give this land to your offspring, from the brook of Egypt to the Euphrates River.”

—Genesis 15:18

Consider these questions:

How did God respond to Abram’s worries? Why was reaffirming His promises to Abram an appropriate response?

Take a closer look at verses 1-5 and 7. How did Abram respond? When have you responded to God like that? Why?

Review the definition of the word covenant. In what ways does this word describe God? Explain.

COVENANT n. – A formal and serious agreement or promise.

How did God show that He is a covenant God in these verses? Jot down a few ideas.

The Point

God is not distant, but desires to covenant with His people. He is fully committed to His plan and His people.

Respond

God is a covenant God because He is faithful to His promises, including redemption. Because He is a covenant God, we can trust Him.

God’s Word is full of promises. In your journal, jot down a few things you know God has promised in Scripture. Spend some time praising God for these truths and how He’s shown Himself to be faithful in them.

As believers, we share in Abraham’s covenant. For further study, read Galatians 3:6-7.

Behind the Story

One important part of sealing a covenant was sacrifice. The Hebrew expression for making a covenant literally means to cut a covenant. This may refer to the practice of cutting an animal in half and walking between its pieces seen in this passage.¹

¹Martin H. Manser, “Covenants, Nature of,” Dictionary of Bible Themes, [cited 19 April 2014]. Available from the Internet: https://www.BibleGateway.com.

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