Day 7 - Genesis 11:27 - 12:20 and Psalm 7

 Julie

I think one of the main points in today's reading is the lesson of Abram not having the faith that God would protect him. In his own fear he makes a rash and terrible decision that in the ends affects the life of others. God does save him in the end and condemns those that took advantage of the situation. I am wrestling with this a bit, because the Pharaoh is condemned, but was given misinformation. Not that I am advocating or excusing his actions, but Abram and Sarai deceived them. I think I am having trouble seeing the true message in today reading and I cannot seem to find anything to really explain how and why this came  about the way that it did. One of the only things that I did read that I am unsure of is how Sarai is commended in the NT for her submission to Abram and doing as he asked.

Psalm 7 seems to be a Psalm of repentance. It is suggested that the singer is being falsely accused and asking God for help. I did not originally read it that way, but I could see the request for forgiveness if they had wronged anyone. They did turn to God as the true judge of what we each do, and I  think that v. 8 stands out as important because it reminds us that God is the judge of all and man is not. We should not judge others for what they do, but let God judge and deal with them as he sees fit. The entire Psalm is also a reminder that we should turn to God for repentance when we have done wrong or are suspected of doing wrong and ask for his help and forgiveness.

 

Michelle

So I am perplexed by this passage.  Abram was given wealth because he lied about his wife being his sister.  That seems wrong to me that he was rewarded for his deceptions.  I am not sure where this is progressing but seems like Pharaoh should not have been punished in that way as he was deceived by Abram.   So yeah I am with you, this one is giving me pause and confusion.  The only thing I see is that he didn't have faith in God's direction. 

The psalm seem like someone is being persecuted by those around him and he is praying to the lord, although it seems a little whiny in the beginning.  It also says toward the end, "the trouble they cause recoils on them; their violence comes down on their own heads".  It makes me think of karma.  If you cause trouble it will come right back to you.