Genesis 17

 Genesis 17 is about God’s covenant with Abraham.  Twice is this chapter, as God speaks to him, scripture tells us that “Abram fell flat on his face”.  When is the last time you were flat on your face before God?  When is the last time you were down on your knees?  For some of us getting back up is the challenge, but getting flat on our face is certainly something we need to do.  God desires us to get with him and have relationship.  Abram gets his new name in this chapter – God begins to call him Abraham – “father of many nations”.  A covenant relationship is established and god tells him there will be many decendants.  Of course, Abraham laughs when God tells him he will father a son.  He was 99 and Sarah 90 – didn’t seem probable.  But with God all things are possible and in spite of Abrahams doubt, God continues.  After the discussion finished Abraham again shows obedience and goes and circumcises himself and his household…..ouch.  But obedience and covenant – that is the key to this chapter.  It is all because of relationship.  Abraham listens and acts.  We see it time and again!