Do People See God in Your Life? | Reflections on Genesis 21:22-34
This is from a sermon preached on Genesis 21:22-34.
When people look at you, do they see evidence of God’s grace in your life? This question lies at the heart of Abraham’s story in Genesis 21:22–34, a passage that reminds us of the transformative power of God’s grace and our call to reflect it in every aspect of our lives.
The Gift of Grace
Grace is the ultimate gift, freely given by God through Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8–9 tells us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” This grace is not about material blessings or earthly comfort—it is the unearned favour of God that saves, transforms, and sustains us.
The challenge is this: Does your life reflect gratitude for this incredible gift? Do your actions, words, and attitudes point others to the God who saved you?
Abraham’s Example
Abimelech, a foreign king, observed something extraordinary in Abraham’s life. He said, “God is with you in all that you do” (Genesis 21:22). What Abimelech recognized was not Abraham’s material wealth or personal strength, but the evidence of God’s hand in his life. Abraham’s growing influence and the peace he sought with others were a reflection of God’s promises and provision.
Abraham’s response to challenges, such as the dispute over a well, wasn’t about claiming power or wealth. Instead, he chose to trust God’s faithfulness, seeking peace and showing integrity. His life pointed others to God’s greatness, not his own achievements or possessions.
Living as Sojourners
Like Abraham, we are sojourners in this world, waiting for the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises. Hebrews 11:13 reminds us, “These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.”
This waiting is not about gaining temporary blessings but about trusting God’s eternal purposes. Our lives, like Abraham’s, should reflect hope and faith in God’s promises rather than an attachment to earthly success.
A Call to Worship
In Genesis 21:33, Abraham planted a tamarisk tree and worshiped the Everlasting God. This act wasn’t about securing a legacy for himself—it was a declaration of trust in God’s faithfulness across generations. Abraham worshiped not because he had everything he wanted, but because he trusted the God who is eternal, sovereign, and good.
As we navigate seasons of waiting, we, too, are called to worship the Everlasting God, resting in His promises and trusting in His eternal plan.
How Does This Apply to You?
The question remains: Do people see God in your life? Here are some ways to reflect God’s grace, rooted in His character rather than worldly success:
- Gratitude: Live with a heart of thankfulness for God’s saving grace, not for material gain. Let joy in Christ be evident in your life.
- Peace: Pursue peace and reconciliation in your relationships, reflecting the gospel of grace rather than striving for personal advantage.
- Trust: Demonstrate faith in God’s promises, even when life is hard. Trust Him not for temporary relief, but for His eternal purposes.
- Worship: Make time to focus on God’s faithfulness, declaring His greatness through your words, actions, and attitudes.
A Life That Points to Him
God’s grace refines us and reveals His faithfulness as we wait. Just as Abraham’s life pointed others to God, our lives should do the same. This Christmas season, as we celebrate the ultimate gift of grace in Jesus Christ, let’s reflect on how we can live in a way that draws others to Him.
Does your life show the world that you belong to God? Take a moment to consider: How can you better reflect His grace this week?
Let your life be a testimony not to earthly gain but to the eternal God who saves, sustains, and is with you in all that you do.