Genesis 20-22: As Moses continues the story of Abraham, we again see the failures and successes of Abraham. First, he again calls Sarah his sister and she is taken. Then the son of promise - Isaac is born, but his son Ishmael and Hagar are banished by Sarah. Finally, the test of his life, God asks Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. Though very foreign to us, this fits into the ancient Near Eastern context, and Abraham willingly obeys. God provides a ram for the burnt offering instead of Isaac. Despite the difficulty of this request, Abraham obeys, confident that God will raise his son from the dead (Heb. 11:17-19). Abraham's knowledge of God empowers him to obey God. Do you know God enough to trust him? To obey him? To follow his direction in your life? It is imperative that we know God so that we can more effectively obey him. A life of faith demands trust in the faithful promises of God and obedience to his words, no matter your circumstances.

Genesis is a book of new beginnings. It offers the origins of the universe, the atmosphere, the human race, language, culture, marriage, language, order, time, worship, and a chosen people. Genesis focuses on God as creator and sustainer of all things. Genesis introduces the patriarchs of Israel and the promises made to them by God. Genesis demonstrates throughout that God has spoken, spoken in creation, spoken in blessing humanity, spoken even in the curses and judgment because of sin and evil of humanity. Genesis is focused on the communication of God with humanity, communication that presents the truths of God, about himself and his world he created.