Abraham had to do a lot of waiting before God finally fulfilled his promise of a son. It can be hard to wait on God, and Abraham knew this well. He had been waiting for nearly a quarter century when God reiterated his promise in Genesis 17-18 and told him it would come to pass within the year. When we wait on God, he uses this time to refine us, grow our faith, and show his power. Even though it’s hard to wait, God’s Word is sure and he will keep his promises. As we wait, our role is to trust God and exercise faith, knowing he is still at work (especially in us!) and that he will reward our obedient patience!
The story of Abraham’s life opens with a profound and powerful event: his response to God’s call to leave his homeland and go to the land God will show him (Gen 12:1). Abraham's life is marked by moments of both faith and doubt, courage and fear. Through it all, God was was faithful, enabling Abraham to keep turning back to him in faith and courage.