Genesis 20 – 23
Verse 20:2 is Abraham still not trusting God:
Because he was living in Gerar as a foreigner, Abraham once again told everyone that his wife, Sarah, was his sister. King Abimelech of Gerar sent for Sarah and took her into his harem.
Interesting as you read on, you find out that Abraham was technically not lying since she is his half-sister. I believe this story is a perfect example of God’s grace since you have a man who is to be the head of the nation of Israel failing often. He lied twice about his wife, slept with a servant and laughed at God, yet when he was commanded to sacrifice his son, he did what he was told. Out of all those I could see not doing the first minor ones, but sacrificing my son would be something out of the question. I may go through the motions knowing this story, but I would not drop the knife. I would expect God to butt in before then.
Verse 23:13 has Abraham not accepting a gift:
and replied to Ephron so all those present could hear.
Abraham: Please, listen to what I have to say. I will gladly pay you a fair price for the field. Please accept it from me. That way I can bury my dead in peace.
Interesting that Abraham did this, I believe it was partially out of pride but also so he did not “owe” Ephron anything. Often when things are given, especially to those who are not in need, something is expected in return. I believe this is what Abraham was protecting his family from.
A lesson to learn here is discerning ones motives on gifts. If they are just giving out of love it should be no problem accepting gifts, but often it’s a “you scratch my back” arrangement. This is much the same with political gifts, where as the “donation” is given without “expectations”, most large donors want access. It’s a game that unfortunately gives an unfair advantage to the wealthy.
In this nation we call the donations free speech, yet is it “free” when it blocks access to people without money? That is where publically funded campaigns, where everyone gets the same access, is appealing. Also, easier access to the ballot would be a helpful since right now “the machine” is the only groups that have real access to getting on a ballot.
Sorry, sometimes I drift as I did today. I think what we need to learn from Abraham is God will forgive us and His will trump all.