Bible Commentary

Genesis 15:8

Genesis 15:8

Little Bible — for children and parents · Growth Figures · © Growth Figures. All rights reserved.

Abram's question is not faithless — it echoes the prayers of faithful people throughout Scripture who ask for signs (Gideon, Mary). God does not rebuke Abram for asking; instead He answers with the extraordinary covenant ceremony of the following verses. Asking for confirmation is part of honest relationship with God.

Memory phrase: It is okay to ask God for confirmation.

Talk about it: Abram believed God but still asked 'how can I know for sure?' Is that the same as not believing? What do you think?

Prayer: God, I believe You — and sometimes I also need something to hold on to. Thank You for being patient with my honest questions.

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Genesis 15 — OverviewGenesis 15 · Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole BibleIn this chapter we have a solemn treaty between God and Abram concerning a covenant that was to be established between them. In the former chapter we had Abram in the field with kings; here we find him in the…Genesis 15 — OverviewGenesis 15 · Treasury of Scripture KnowledgeGenesis 15:1, God encourages Abram, who complains for want of an heir; Genesis 15:4, God promises him a son, and a multiplying of his seed; Genesis 15:6, Abram is justified by faith; Genesis 15:7, Canaan is promised…Genesis 15 — OverviewGenesis 15 · John Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleThis chapter informs us of a gracious appearance of God to Abram, and of a kind promise made unto him, Ge 15:1; of Abram's request for an heir, Ge 15:2; of an answer to it, that he should have one, and even a numberless…Genesis 15 — OverviewGenesis 15 · Little Bible — for children and parentsAbram is afraid and doubting: he has no son and his heir will be a servant. God takes him outside at night, shows him the stars, and promises his descendants will be as many as the stars. Abram believes God, and God…Genesis 15:1-21Genesis 15:1-21 · The Pulpit CommentaryFaith. The substance of this chapter is the special intercourse between Jehovah and Abram. On that foundation faith rests. It is not feeling after God, if haply he be found; it is a living confidence and obedience,…Genesis 15:7-11Genesis 15:7-11 · Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole BibleWe have here the assurance given to Abram of the land of Canaan for an inheritance. I. God declares his purpose concerning it, v. 7. Observe here, Abram made no complaint in this matter, as he had done for the…