Genesis 12:1-13

(...) and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.

Gen 12:5b KJV

How can we get to the finish line?

Both the city and the tower were left halfway through because the motivation behind the project was incorrect. They built for themselves with rebellion and pride in their hearts; they sought fame. The Eternal condemned their attitudes and intentions.

Terach, Avraham’s father, died in Haran without reaching the Land of Kenaan, which he had intended when leaving Ur. He couldn’t get there because it wasn’t his calling.

In today’s passage we see that Avraham and his companions reached the goal of their project. What is the difference between what we saw last week and what we see in Avraham’s life? They didn’t reach their goal but Avraham did.

The great difference lies in the attitude of the heart. Avraham, our father, didn’t seek a name; he didn’t seek his own fame and glory. That’s why the Eternal made him famous and until now his name is known everywhere in the world. Instead of aiming at building a big city to make a great name for himself, he was willing to leave his home and leave his family. Avraham didn’t seek glory for himself, but for the Eternal.

When he received a calling, he obeyed the voice of the Eternal without even knowing exactly where he was going. Instead of rebelling he remained humble. Instead of seeking his own interests, he sought the Almighty’s. Instead of seeking by way of astrology, he sought to have a personal relationship with the Eternal. Instead of doing his own will, he did the Eternal’s will. That is the key to his success.