Day 3 - The Greatness Of God's Promise
- Pastor b.Side
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
“Then [Abraham] planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there called on the name of the LORD, the Everlasting God.” - Genesis 21:33
Sometimes, situations arise that make us believe God won’t keep His promises. Often, our circumstances seem to go against what God’s will and plans are, as shown in Scripture. The problem with this view is that we tend to forget a big difference between life in this world and God’s nature. Circumstances are temporary, but God stays the same. Seasons change, but God is eternal. So, the promises in His Word never change.
“Then [Abraham] planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba…”
The testimony of Genesis 21:33 marks the first time God is called “El Olam” in scripture, which means “Everlasting God.” Why did Abraham choose to address God this way at this moment? Abraham had previously dug several wells in the land that God promised to give him as part of the covenant. Abraham told the king that some of his men had blocked those wells. While Abraham believed that digging those wells showed that God was establishing him in the promised land, the king’s men filling them in felt like a setback. How would Abraham handle the situation? Could he confront the king and come out on top? Could he talk with the king to resolve the issue peacefully? From Abraham’s view, the situation looked bleak.
The Bible shows that God was in control the whole time. The king and his military leader realized that God favored Abraham. In Genesis 21:22, they said, “God is with you in all that you do.” They understood that Abraham was special in God’s eyes and highly favored. Because they feared Abraham’s God, they also feared Abraham himself. God was demonstrating His power and greatness through the works and miracles He performed in Abraham’s life. This was very powerful. God made an impact without Abraham knowing it, creating fear in those who might oppose him. So, when Abraham brought up the wells with the king, the king quickly settled the issue out of fear of God.
“And there called on the name of the LORD, the Everlasting God…”
Abraham couldn’t keep his wells intact on his own. How would Abraham acquire the rest of the land that God promised? God had his back and was always working behind the scenes to ensure Abraham could move forward in the direction of God’s covenant. God addressed the issue, and Abraham regained possession of his wells. Abraham’s hope was also restored. He realized that God’s greatness remains unchanged by circumstances. God will always do what He says, regardless of how much time passes or how things appear from our perspective. If we must go through a season of difficulty, frustration, or uncertainty, so be it. Nothing is difficult for God. Nothing frustrates God. Nothing is uncertain to the unchanging God of eternity!
Prayer for today
Our heavenly Father, thank You for this encouragement. Forgive us for the times we let temporary circumstances determine our faith in Your Word. Help us remember that You are everlasting and unchanging in greatness. You will do what You promised, regardless of what happens. We ask that You fill us with peace and joy as recipients of this hope, in Jesus’ name. Amen!
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