Series: Called To Promise [#5]
FAITH IN THE MIDST OF WAR
Genesis 14:1-24
Introduction:
Welcome to this message in our series, "Called To Promise." Today, we look at Genesis 14:1-24, where we see how Abram trusted God during a time of war and chaos. Even though there was fighting and trouble around him, Abram kept trusting God's promises. His faith showed him that even in hard times, we can rely on God's help and His plans. This story teaches us that faith is very important when life is difficult, and it reminds us to trust that God is in control, no matter what we face.
In a World full of problems and conflicts, Abram's example encourages us to hold on tightly to God's promises. Just like Abram trusted God during uncertain times, we are called to trust Him too. This message reminds us to focus more on our faith than on the chaos around us, knowing that God's plan will succeed. As we think about Abram’s story, let it strengthen us to stay firm in our faith and trust that God will always be faithful, even in the hardest times.
Genesis 14:1-4
Faith in the midst of war…
1. Recognizes the reality of conflict.
We see that conflict and war have been part of human history from the very beginning. The chapter tells about how a group of kings fought against the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah, showing the chaos and violence that come with fighting for power. From a spiritual point of view, this reminds us that living in a broken world means we will face struggles, conflicts, and difficulties that can shake our safety, peace, and faith. Recognizing that conflict exists is important for believers because it helps us understand life from God's perspective. It doesn't mean we ignore trouble, but instead, it encourages us to trust God even when things are hard. Our faith is about trusting that God is still in control and with us, even during times of chaos.
When we think about this in our own lives, it helps us remember that conflict is part of life. Just like Abram trusted God to help him during his rescue mission, we are called to trust in God's power and promises, even when the world around us is troubled. Faith isn’t about giving up or ignoring the chaos, but about confidently believing that God’s plan is bigger than our problems. Whether we're facing personal struggles or spiritual battles, our faith keeps us steady. It reminds us that God's grace is enough, and in the end, God's victory will come. This trust gives us strength to stand firm and keep believing, no matter what we face.
Genesis 14:5-7
Faith in the midst of war…
2. Shows loyalty and the cost of alliance.
We see a clear example of loyalty and the price of standing with someone during war. When Abram’s nephew Lot is captured during a war, Abram decides to go after the enemies- Not just as a military move, but because of his faith and loyalty to his family and to God. This shows us that true faith sometimes means risking our comfort and safety to do what is right, even when it’s dangerous. The Bible teaches us that faith involves staying loyal to God's promises and principles, even when things are hard. It reminds us to trust that God is in control and powerful enough to help us, even if being loyal to Him costs us personally.
In our lives, this story teaches us that having faith during times of conflict, (whether in real war or in our spiritual battles) means staying committed to God's truth and caring for others. Just like Abram’s loyalty led him to face great danger, our faith calls us to stand firm in what we believe, even when everything around us is confusing or difficult. Being loyal to God might mean making sacrifices, but we can trust that God will help us and bring justice. During tough times, we are encouraged to stay loyal to God's promises and trust that He will give us strength and guidance. This story challenges us to think about our own choices and to choose loyalty to God, even when things around us are chaotic.
Genesis 14:8-16
Faith in the midst of war…
3. Witnesses the courage to rescue.
We see how Abram shows great courage when war is happening around him. Even though it’s dangerous and confusing, Abram trusts in God's power and help. He steps up to rescue his nephew Lot and others who were taken prisoner. This shows us that faith is active- It makes us brave and willing to act, even when things are scary. It teaches us that trusting in God's promises gives us strength to face hard times, knowing that God is in control and will protect us.
For our lives today, this story encourages us to be brave like Abram and share our faith even when it’s difficult. Just like Abram risked everything to help others, we are called to show God's love and hope to people around us, especially during hard times or conflicts. Our faith gives us the courage to stand up and act as messengers of Christ, trusting that God is our protector. Whether in big wars or personal struggles, our example can show others that trusting in God gives us the strength to help and rescue those in need.
Genesis 14:17-20
Faith in the midst of war…
4. Acknowledges God's power to deliver.
We see how powerful God's control is and how He can help His people even when things are chaotic and full of conflict. When Abram meets Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High, he shows his trust in God's power by giving Him a tenth of everything he has gained from winning the battle. This act of worship shows that Abram believed God's power is greater than any danger or war. It teaches us that no matter how hard or overwhelming our struggles are, (whether in our personal lives or in the world) God is still in control and able to save us. Faith in God's power helps us stay strong during tough times, reminding us that victory belongs to Him and that He can turn even our darkest moments into stories of His grace and strength.
Today, this story encourages us to keep trusting God during times of war- Whether literal battles or spiritual struggles. Just like Abram trusted and worshiped God, we should acknowledge His power in our own lives and rely on Him for strength and help. When we believe in God's control, our fear turns into hope. His power is not limited by what we face, and trusting in Him gives us peace and courage. No matter what battles come our way, we can be confident that God will help us through, leading us to victory because of His mighty power.
Genesis 14:21-23
Faith in the midst of war…
5. Recognizes God's blessing, not personal gain.
Abram shows strong faith by trusting that God is in control and blessing him, instead of chasing after personal gain. When King Melchizedek gives him bread and wine and blesses him, Abram humbly refuses to take any reward from the king of Sodom. He makes it clear that everything he has, (his victory and possessions) comes from God alone. This teaches us that during times of war or trouble, we should focus on God's blessings and trust His power, rather than seeking worldly riches or success. Even when things seem chaotic, faith means trusting that God is guiding and providing for us.
Today, this story reminds us that in our own struggles, (whether spiritual or life challenges) we need to keep our faith in God's sovereignty and blessings. Instead of relying on worldly things or feeling defeated, we should follow Abram’s example of humility and trust in God’s goodness. When we face difficult times, it’s important to remember that our true strength and victory come from God. By focusing on His blessings, we can stay strong and faithful, knowing that God's power is greater than any war or trouble we face.
Genesis 14:24
Faith in the midst of war…
6. Reaffirms dependence on God's sovereignty.
During times of war and chaos, our faith reminds us that we must trust in God's control over everything. In Genesis 14:24, Abram shows this trust by saying he will take nothing for himself, even a simple sandal, because he knows that all blessings and victories come from God's hand. This means Abram is giving up trying to control things himself and is trusting that God is in charge no matter what happens. When we face difficult times, like war, this teaches us to rely on God's power and plan instead of trying to handle everything on our own. It helps us remember that God's rule is never broken, and He is always working out His purposes, even in chaos.
For us today, trusting in God's sovereignty during hard times means letting go of our fears and trusting that God is working everything for good. Just like Abram trusted God's plan in a time of conflict, we are called to depend on God's unchanging nature, not on our own strength or the uncertain outcomes around us. This kind of faith gives us courage and stability, knowing that God is in control. Even when the world is in turmoil, we can find peace in knowing that God's reign is unshakable. His plans will come to pass, and our safety is found in trusting His sovereignty.
Conclusion:
As we think about Genesis 14, we see that even during chaos, fighting, and uncertainty, God's power is still with His people. Abraham showed strong faith and obedience by trusting God's promises. This reminds us that even in hard times, we should put our trust in God's faithfulness. No matter how bad things look, we can find peace and strength by trusting Him, because He is in control and will take care of us. Today, I invite you to respond to God's call to have faith. If you are going through struggles, (whether in your heart, mind, or body) remember you are not alone. God's strength is greater than any problem. Come to Jesus today, give Him your fears, and trust in His plan.
