The Power of Prayer: A Biblical Immigrant's Journey of Faith
By faith, Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith, he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. He was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. Hebrews 11:8–10 (NIV).
Abraham is well known as the father of faith, mainly because He heard God and obeyed. You see, like a few other migrants in the Bible, Abraham’s response to God’s instruction was not borne out of necessity, situation, or circumstances; it was borne out of obedience to God’s desires. Abraham demonstrated his faith by quickly leaving his nation in response to God's promise of a new one, even though he had no idea where or what that new nation would be. This act of obedience, despite the uncertainties and challenges of migration, highlights Abraham's deep trust in God's guidance and provision.
In the Bible, we see that Abraham was in constant communication with God, which aided him in knowing what to do at certain times. Prayer played a crucial role in Abraham's life and journey. It was through prayer and direct communication with God that Abraham navigated the uncertainties of his path. His life demonstrates several instances where prayer was pivotal:
Seeking God's Will: Abraham often sought God’s guidance through prayer. His intimate conversations with God reveal a relationship built on trust and reverence. We see this in Genesis 15, Abraham expressed his concerns about his heir, and God responded by reaffirming His covenant. In Genesis 15:6, it was said that “Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.”
Interceding for Others: One of the most profound examples of Abraham's prayer life is his intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18). Abraham's plea to God on behalf of these cities illustrates the power of intercessory prayer.
Trusting in God's Promises: Despite years of waiting, Abraham continued to pray and trust in God's promise of a son. His persistence in prayer, even when fulfillment seemed impossible, shows his unwavering faith.
Abraham's journey as an immigrant is symbolic of the spiritual journey of faith that many believers undertake. His willingness to leave his familiar surroundings and venture into the unknown teaches the importance of faith and obedience to God's calling. It encourages believers (tentmakers) to trust in God's plans, even when they are not fully understood. As an immigrant, Abraham faced numerous challenges, including famine, conflicts, and the need for sustenance. Through these trials, he learned to depend entirely on God, reinforcing the importance of seeking God's help and provision through prayer.
As a Christian student, worker, professional, or business person, prayer is not just a rule but an important aspect of our walk with God. It opens us to the mind of God, providing wisdom and guidance (James 1:5), brings peace to the heart (Philippians 4:6), changes situations (James 5:16), and ultimately equips the believer for the task ahead.
The account of Abraham's journey as an immigrant who followed God's instructions emphasizes the critical significance of prayer and trust. His life shows that prayer is a principle that he lived by. Through prayer, we can confidently answer God’s call, wherever it may lead, knowing that God is trustworthy and that His promises are certain.
Challenge
What promise have you received from God, and how will you respond to it? You can start today by talking to God and asking Him for wisdom and guidance.
Pray
Dear God, thank you for your promises to me. Help me to respond to you in faith, knowing that you are trustworthy and your plans for me are perfect. Amen.