January 5: Genesis 12-14; Luke 5

Temporary/Permanent

Scripture: Genesis (NIV) 12:8 From there he went on towards the hills east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. There he built an altar to the LORD and called on the name of the LORD.

Observation: As Abram (later renamed Abraham) moved in the direction God had directed we see in the wording of this verse the priority in his life. Abram “pitched” his tent but “built” his altar. His earthly living was in a “pitched” (temporary) residence but his worship was around a “built” (permanent) altar.

Many people today are working to build their house, but too willing to worship wherever it is convenient, strikes their fancy, or is where their parents worshipped. Some will even stay home from church to accomplish some project around their house.

Application: The songwriter put it well: “This world is not my home; I’m just a passing through…” The one “permanent” thing in my life is my relationship with God. I remember the words I have seen hanging on many walls: “Only one life, will soon be past; Only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Prayer: Lord, help me live today with this truth in mind. Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!