“The LORD had said to Abram, ‘Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.’”
Genesis 12:1
In Genesis we read that Abram (who later was re-named Abraham) was called by God to leave his hometown of Ur, a bustling Mesopotamian city known for its wealth, culture, and idol worship. Today, a reconstructed temple-tower (ziggurat)—one where Abram probably worshipped—punctuates the seemingly-endless desert landscape.
Ur was a place of comfort and security. When God asked Abram to leave it all behind and trust in a promise that he couldn’t yet fully understand, a lot was at stake. This moment in Abram’s life reminds us that God also may call us to step out of our comfort zones and to leave behind the things we rely on or hold dear. Is the Lord asking you to surrender your plans, career ambitions, or even relationships that have taken priority over His place in your life?
God’s call doesn’t always make sense to us in the moment. But He asks us to obey, knowing that He has a plan far greater than we can see. As we follow Him, we learn that true fulfillment comes not from the things of this world, but from walking in God’s will.
Ur was a place of comfort and security. When God asked Abram to leave it all behind and trust in a promise that he couldn’t yet fully understand, a lot was at stake. This moment in Abram’s life reminds us that God also may call us to step out of our comfort zones and to leave behind the things we rely on or hold dear. Is the Lord asking you to surrender your plans, career ambitions, or even relationships that have taken priority over His place in your life?
God’s call doesn’t always make sense to us in the moment. But He asks us to obey, knowing that He has a plan far greater than we can see. As we follow Him, we learn that true fulfillment comes not from the things of this world, but from walking in God’s will.
Scripture Focus
Genesis 11:27-12:1
Insight
“I do not know what lies ahead,/ the way I cannot see./ But One stands near to be my guide,/ He’ll show the way to me.” (Alfred B. Smith, 1947)
Bible In A Year
- 1 Samuel 7-8
- Psalm 123
- 2 Corinthians 1