Authentic faith will lead us to obey, resulting in God’s blessing.

SCRIPTURE | Genesis 12–15

CENTRAL TRUTH

The Lord’s call was so clear, so real, so life-altering, that Abram responded in immediate obedience. He believed God’s words. The call of Abram marked a huge moment in human history: God’s promise was for Abram’s people and all people who are made coheirs in Christ.

Key question

Why is it important to imitate Abram’s faith in your own life?

Keep in Mind

Our students have likely questioned if following Jesus—obeying Jesus—would be worth it. They worry about all the things they might have to “give up” to obey God and if He might ask them to do something they don’t want to do. Many of us have asked ourselves these questions. Jesus even encouraged us to weigh the decision to be one of His disciples because it will cost us (Luke 14:25-33). It may cost our students their popularity, their prejudices, their plans, or their hobbies. They may pay a price in the way they spend their time. But what they gain far outweighs anything they “give up”—they gain true life.

APPLICATION

What could God be calling you to leave behind to follow Him? Why can you trust Him?

THE WIN

FOR THE STUDENT: When God calls students to do something, say something, or go somewhere, they always leave something behind. It may not be a physical home like it was for Abram, but it may mean leaving behind reputations, mistakes, toxic relationships, addictions, or plans for their lives. Obeying God and trusting in His faithfulness may mean they become unsettled, but God will go with them wherever He asks them to go.

FOR THE LEADER: No matter what God calls you to do, you can trust Him. God will never lead you to a place where He won’t go with you. Isn’t that amazing? The God of all creation walks with believers at all times because the Holy Spirit lives within them! Even though obedience often involves walking away from something, you’ll be blessed for walking in obedience to the Lord. Consider sharing your experience with how God blessed you for obeying Him even when it was difficult.