Called, Tested, Sent: Walking the Journey of Faith
This past Sunday, Ellen Chapman continued our journey through the Big Story of the Bible by taking us into the transformational life of Abraham—a man whose faith, obedience, and story still speak deeply into our own.
Spanning Genesis 11–25, we were reminded that God’s Big Story is also our story. It’s not just a tale from ancient history—it’s a living, breathing invitation into partnership with God.
The Call of Abraham: When God Says “Go”
In Genesis 12, we see the beginning of Abraham’s faith journey:
“The Lord said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.’” (Gen. 12:1)
Abraham obeyed—even though he didn’t know where he was going.
He heard, he trusted, and he went.
Ellen challenged us with these powerful questions:
Are you responsive to the voice of God?
When He says “Go,” are you willing to move?
Are you where you need to be, or is God calling you to something new?
Faith means movement.
Faith is action.
Like Abraham, we are called to be witnesses, living lives that reflect the God who sends us.
The Discipline of Obedience: Doing the Right Thing
Abraham wasn’t perfect. He and Sarah made mistakes. But what marked his life was this:
He had a heart that was after God.
That kind of obedience doesn’t come from emotion or impulse—it’s built on discipline and foundation.
Doing the small, right things builds a life ready to do the big, God things.
“You have to have the foundations in your life to respond to the call of God.”
So ask yourself:
What small steps of obedience do I need to take?
Am I laying down the right foundations to hear and respond to God?
The Test of Sacrifice: What Are You Willing to Lay Down?
One of the most powerful moments in Abraham’s journey was when God asked him to sacrifice his son Isaac.
This wasn’t just about obedience—it was about trusting God with the most precious thing in his life.
Abraham's willingness to lay down his son was an act of radical trust in a God he believed would never fail him.
What is God asking you to sacrifice today?
What are you holding onto that might be holding you back?
True worship often involves laying something down. Sacrifice clears the way for greater purpose.
God Is Calling You—Are You Ready to Go?
Abraham’s story reminds us that God doesn’t just call heroes—He calls ordinary people who are willing to go.
And He’s still calling today.
Will you answer the call?
Will you step out in obedience?
Will you go, even if you don’t know where the path leads?
You Have a Story Too
Your life has meaning.
Your experiences have weight.
Your story, like Abraham’s, is part of the Big Story of what God is doing in this world.
Ellen reminded us that:
“You have life experiences that will change the circumstances and experiences of other people.”
So today, ask yourself:
Where and how am I serving God?
What do I need to lay down?
Am I prepared to go?
Final Encouragement
Abraham’s life teaches us that faith is a journey, obedience is a choice, and God’s story is one of invitation, transformation, and mission.
God has an amazing plan for this community—and you’re a part of it.
Step into the story.
Be willing to go. Be willing to give. Be willing to grow.
