October 19

Abraham Broke Into Laughter

Abraham laughed (Genesis 17:17).

Scripture: Genesis 17:15-22

Song: “Blessed Assurance”

Thinkers debate why Abraham laughed. Opinions include: He was happy at the coming prospect of a boy; He doubted God; He was so old he was starting to forget what God had said. Did they have Alzheimer’s back then? Whatever the answer, it’s possible that the true answer is a combination of reasons.

Seeing that Almighty God’s thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:9), we shouldn’t become trivial pursuit Christians. It is doubtful we will spend our time in Heaven searching for answers to every question. Our souls will be too busy praising the Lord and singing in the heavenly choir. Heaven is the joy and blessing of being with our beloved Lord and Savior.

When I recently walked through the valley of death and was free for the first time from my bodies’ sounds and demands, I was surprised by a beautiful peace that had surrounded me all along without me knowing it. I didn’t want to come back. I understood for the first time why the Lord describes His sheep as being “vapours” (James 4:14, KJV) that will disappear.

Death is nothing to be afraid of as He has conquered death (2 Timothy 1:10). The details that bother us now will be of little importance. Details and whatever we think is so important now will be gone like a fog that’s blown away. Why Abraham laughed probably won’t take up our time.

Heavenly Father, I’m looking forward to when I can be called away from the trials and tribulations of this life. Until then help me to rest in Your Word as sustaining evidence. In Your Son’s name, amen.