Genesis 18:17-18 - 18:17-18

In Genesis 18:17-18, we see God revealing His plans to Abraham. He is about to destroy the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, and He wants to include Abraham in His decision-making process. This shows the intimacy and trust God has with His chosen people. In Genesis 35:1, God instructs Jacob to go to Bethel and build an altar to the God who appeared to him. This reminds us of the importance of worship and acknowledging God's presence in our lives. Genesis 22:18 speaks of God's promise to bless all nations through Abraham's descendants. This is a foreshadowing of Jesus, who would come from the line of Abraham and be the ultimate blessing to all people. Finally, in John 17:17, Jesus prays for His disciples to be sanctified in the truth. This reminds us of the power and authority of God's Word, which is the ultimate source of truth.

As we reflect on these passages, we are reminded of the faithfulness and sovereignty of God. He includes His people in His plans, He guides and directs them, and He promises blessings that extend beyond their own lives. We see the importance of worship and acknowledging God's presence in our lives, just as Jacob was instructed to build an altar in Bethel. We are also reminded of the power and authority of God's Word, which Jesus prayed for His disciples to be sanctified in. This should encourage us to prioritize reading and studying the Bible, knowing that it is the ultimate source of truth and wisdom.

Dear God, thank You for revealing Yourself to us through Your Word. Help us to trust in Your plans and to seek Your presence in our lives. Sanctify us in Your truth and give us a hunger for Your Word. May we be faithful in worshiping You and building altars in our hearts to acknowledge Your presence. Thank You for the blessings You have promised us through Jesus, and may we be a blessing to others as well. In Jesus' name, amen.