Though the Bible never explicitly calls Abraham a servant of God, we know that Abraham considered himself to be God’s servant. In fact, the first time we find the word “Lord” in lowercase in the Bible (“Lord” in lowercase means “Master”), it is used by Abraham in an address to God (Genesis 15:2). Thus, God was Abraham’s Master, and Abraham was God’s servant. Not only was Abraham a servant of God, but he is a most exemplary servant.
As a good servant, Abraham went. God called Abraham to go to a land which would later be shown to him (Genesis 12:1). That is, Abraham was not exactly sure where he was going, but he went nonetheless. The Hebrews author wrote, “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go… And he went out, not knowing where he was going.” (Hebrews 11:8). Good servants go!
As a good servant, Abraham waited. Abraham was 75 years old when he was told that he and Sarah would have children (Genesis 12:4), and yet it was not until he was 100 years old when he and Sarah had their first child together (Genesis 21:5). For 25 years, Abraham and Sarah waited. Granted, their waiting was not always patient. At 86 years old Abraham had a child with another woman. Nonetheless, they waited and should have not grown impatient. Good servants wait!
As a good servant, Abraham obeyed. God tested Abraham after Sarah bore him a son. God instructed Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac. Abraham was willing to do so, believing that God would raise Isaac from the dead (Hebrews 11:17-19). What faith Abraham had to kill his own son! As Abraham’s knife was raised above Isaac, an angel stopped Abraham. Abraham had passed the test, everyone knew that Abraham would obey. Good servants obey.
As a good servant, Abraham gave. After Abraham’s nephew, Lot, was captured, Abraham went to war to rescue his nephew. Abraham won the war and gained a great bounty. On his way home, he ran into a priest of God, named Melchizedek. To him, and to God, Abraham gave a tenth of the spoil (Genesis 14:20). Good servants give.
Abraham made his fair share of mistakes, but Abraham tried his best in all things. As a good servant, Abraham went where God bid, waited on God, obeyed God, and gave back to God. Abraham is a good example for us in being a servant!
Comments