In our last visit we studied Genesis 18 using a chapter study approach. Give the chapter a title and choose a key verse. Then state a significant truth, look up some cross references to expand your understanding of the chapter, and write down any questions you have. Put what you find in the chapter into an outline and then prepare some applications you can make to your own life. We did the steps up through the outline. Now let’s develop some applications.
We are to practice hospitality toward those we already know, and also to strangers, without expecting anything in return. Don’t be surprised if your guests actually give you far more than you gave them. Abraham and Sarah got the promise of a miracle baby! On top of that they entertained angels without knowing it. God also let Abraham in on a secret.
Second, never laugh at God’s promises which might seem far-fetched. If God makes the promise you can count on it coming to pass.
Third, if God responds to your prayer, don’t stop praying. Ask for an even greater answer. When that answer comes, do it again. God will give you a sense when to stop asking for more. In the case of Abraham’s request, God’s answer was different than what Abraham expected. There were fewer righteous people in Sodom than Abraham expected. When God judged Sodom, His answer was greater than Abraham specifically requested – He saved his cousin Lot and his two daughters.
Trust God to answer your prayers in unexpected ways.
