FEB 26
Genesis 20:1-18
Memorise Exodus 20:16
“thou hast brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin”

He had come a long way in his journey of faith. He had made mistakes in the past because of the weakness of his faith and through momentary lapses in his judgment. Nonetheless God continued to be patient with him, continually reaffirmed His covenant with him. This incident is one example in which Abraham wavered in his faith, and repeated the same mistake that he had made years ago, in lying about his relationship to Sarah. 

For reasons unknown, Abraham chose to journey toward the south, towards the city of Gerar. As he neared the city he realised that the inhabitants of Gerar were ungodly people. His old fears and insecurities plagued him again, for he was afraid that they would covet after his wife and kill him in order to take her (Genesis 20:11). Thus he repeated the same masquerade, telling them that she was actually his sister. True enough, Abimelech the king of Gerar was attracted by her, and took her for himself. 

Again God had to intervene, to appear to Abimelech in a dream by night to warn him from committing the grievous sin of adultery, yet acknowledging that he was innocent in this matter, for Abraham had deceived him. Abimelech heeded the warning from God, and told his whole household about it, and warned them against harming Abraham and his wife. However, he also sternly rebuked Abraham, questioning him “What has thou done unto us? And what have I offended thee, that thou hast brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? Thou hast done deeds unto me that ought not to be done” (Genesis 20:9). Indeed what a shame it was for Abraham the man of God to be admonished by this heathen king! In this instance, Abimelech certainly acted more righteously than Abraham, and had every right to be angry with Abraham’s deception.

In his defence, Abraham tried to explain that Sarah was indeed his half-sister (Genesis 20:12). However that was really more an excuse and cover-up, for it was clear that he had concealed the truth of their marriage. A half-truth is still a lie, and it was clear even to the heathen king. As a result, Abraham’s testimony was again marred.

Thought: Have I ever repeated the same mistake?

Prayer: Lord, help me to learn from the mistakes that I make, and to constantly strive to be more godly and holy in all my ways.