Beyond the Weekend: Finding Hope in Family Conflict
In Finding Hope in Family Conflict, Pastor Jeff Manion and other teachers examines the life of Jacob. This series helps us see we make many of the same mistakes as Jacob. Like God does with Jacob, he is patient with us and continues to draw us closer to him. When we learn to rely completely upon God, we are more able to successfully navigate the conflicts in our own life.
Spiritual Heritage
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE
The Lord had said to Abram…”I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great and you will be a blessing.” Genesis 12:1-2
Read: Genesis 12:1-3
Listen: Genesis 12
TODAY'S MESSAGE
Jacob is Abraham’s grandson. Abraham, the man who leaves everything familiar in obedience to God’s call. Who receives God’s promises of land, people and blessing. The father of the Israelite nation whose faith was dramatically tested regarding his son, Isaac (Jacob’s father). This family is a family of great spiritual legacy. But while Jacob has the legacy, he doesn’t have the depth. He’s been taught the stories since he was a toddler, but he doesn’t have the experience.
It’s a familiar description, especially in a deeply religious area like West Michigan. Statements like, “I was raised in Christian home” and “I’ve always known about God” are common. Maybe you’ve grown up in the church and attended Sunday School, VBS, catechism or summer camp. Don’t misunderstand—having a spiritual legacy is a blessing for which to be grateful. But it can’t be all we have. “Inherited faith” can often be no faith or, at best, shallow faith. It’s living under the umbrella of Christianity without experiencing the intimacy of Jesus.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Calling us to spiritual depth, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart,” (Jeremiah 29:13), God wants us to move beyond just a spiritual heritage. One way to do that is to join an Ada Bible Church small group. Another is to begin a conversation with someone whose faith seems alive and has depth. We can help you with both. Contact us at btw@adabible.org.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
