Perrydox.com is devoted to the pursuit of truth, whether plain or paradoxical, whether simple or sublime, or simply absurd yet absolute.
Genesis 17 – Praying through the Bible #7 – A Prayer of Laughter
Laughter, like a smile, is part of the universal human language. Yet, laughter does not always mean the same thing, nor does a smile. A smirk is a type of smile and mocking can be laughter. Sometimes laughter means surprise or incredulity. In Genesis 17, God again tells Abraham he will have children. This time God gets specific about this covenant promise, “I will give you a son by her (Sarah)” (17.16). Abraham laughs. Why?
“Can a child be born to a hundred-year-old man? Can Sarah, a ninety-year-old woman, give birth?” (Genesis 17:17 – HCSB). There are two interpretations. One is that he is overcome with faith, and falls down with reverent laughter. His words are not unfaith but express faith conquering reality (Rm 4.17-22). The other interpretation is he is overcome by reality. Abraham naturally objects asking God to accept what is already tangible – Ishmael. Strangely, we often have more faith in what “is” than in God Almighty (17.1) who made things what they are. Reality opposes faith; and faith opposes reality.
Still today, covenant people who are spiritually circumcised (Col 2.11) can change reality through promises by prayer! But I can already hear the objections: “God doesn’t perform miracles today!” Exactly where does the Bible teach that?! God not performing miracles is vastly different than God ceasing the performing of miracles through people (1 Cor 13.9-10). Plus, God can do above and beyond what we ask or think through providence and love (Eph 3.20).
Our prayer challenge today involves spiritual circumcision, cutting off from ourselves actions, attitudes and thoughts which are not part of covenant living, not part of walking before God (17.1 – NASB). That means separating ourselves from the doubts produced by reality. Think of things hard to believe, contrary to reality, and pray that God will fulfill what is His will. Imagine beyond your imagination. Pray in the very presence of God (17.1 HCSB). Who knows, maybe you will be laughing on your knees in belief.
Comments