Abram was given a call by God before he even believed. He ordered him to leave behind family and land so that he could inherit more…much more. The Lord spoke to his future in Genesis 12 with a profound promise that stands until today:
“And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.”
Genesis 12:2 ESV
Did you catch the words “SO THAT”? Two very simple words that, when combined, cause “dunamis” or dynamite power to be released. These two words are words that denote responsibility. We tell our children, “I’m giving you this education SO THAT you can be productive in the future.” God tells us, “I’m giving you this home SO THAT you can provide protection for your family.” Our bosses tell us, “I’m hiring you SO THAT you can fulfill this position effectively.” Whether implied or stated literally, all of these connotate specific action that needs to be taken by the person who was issued the responsibility. If your child comes to school with failing grades, you want to know why. If you misuse your home, your family will suffer. If you don’t fulfill the duties of your job, you will most likely be released.
But what happens when we don’t fulfill the call of Abram, who was later named Abraham, to bless others? What happens when we don’t use our blessing to impact those put into our paths? What happens if we don’t first receive the blessing that God promises? Eventually, we will lose the ability to impact nations. If we follow the path dictated by this scripture, we discover that nations are the very reasons why we are blessed. God intends to reach all people with His chosen people. Those who agree with Him and receive what He is pouring out CAN impact nations.
Before our teacher training in Arua during the week of September 10th, our teachers were oblivious to this great call. Yes of course they were great at what they do, but they also did not know their impact to the nations. Our friend Jack Hart from YWAM Colorado came to assist our staff with powerful teaching. For his first lesson, he felt he’d be remiss if he didn’t first explain to our teachers about SO THAT. He taught on the call of Abram/Abraham and their roles in it. He encouraged them to seek their hearts to see whether they wanted to first receive the blessing of Abram themselves. Jesus, being a descendant of Abraham and David, promised us new life and hope. This enables us to bless nations.
With the call and responsibility explained and the opportunity to receive the blessing given, all of our teachers stood up. They decided to either receive and/or rededicate their lives to the Blessed One, Jesus. They realized that their job was much greater. That they, too, were called to bless nations. That perhaps the nations were in their classroom. They received the responsibility of SO THAT and decided to live it out. What if we all did the same?
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ of Nazareth. My name is Celeste Lee and I reside in Orlando, Florida (USA) where I attend Deeper Fellowship Church. Over this current year I have experienced what seemed like a very progressive attack on my finances. As I began to pray about it, the Holy Spirit kept responding with causing a desire for me to begin sowing into/ sponsoring the school in Uganda. I didn’t remember the young lady’s name through whom this school was birthday but after asking around I began searching and found Lisa McQueen on Facebook! Upon reading through a Newsletter, my interest was heightened to a level I have never expected. I am answering the call to begin sponsoring and will continue in prayer for clarity on future missions trips to take part in what God is doing amongst this community of workers called to the national. I pray God’s continued blessings and such fruitfulness in the days to come! Blessings, Honor, Glory, and Power to He who sits on the throne and to the Lamb who was slain to receive Dominion and Power both now and forever! Amen!
Humbly Submitted,
-Celeste Lee
Hello Celeste! We are so blessed to hear that God has us on His heart and yours. We are also blessed to hear of your obedience and are excited to partner with you! You can give easily here on our website through the “donations” tab and we would love to have you as part of our mission trip next year July 10-26th. Be praying about that for sure! In the meantime, we will be praying for you and we look forward to serving the Kingdom with you as well. May God richly bless you as you pursue Him.