If you want it bad . . .

Meeting Purpose

To discuss Genesis chapters 1-16, focusing on God's interactions with humanity and lessons for today.

Key Takeaways

- God's approach shifted from intervention pre-flood to interaction/orchestration post-flood

- Abraham's story demonstrates both faith and human fallibility in following God's plan

- We can learn from biblical patriarchs about patience, obedience, and trusting God's timing

Topics

Pre-Flood vs Post-Flood Divine Approach

- Pre-flood: God primarily intervened, with limited interaction (e.g., Enoch, Noah)

- Post-flood: God began interacting more, guiding people through promises and covenants

- Shift allows us to see human potential without divine guidance vs with it

Abraham's Call and Journey

- God called Abram at 75 to leave his homeland (Gen 12:1-4)

- Demonstrated faith by leaving everything familiar

- God repeatedly promised numerous descendants (Gen 12, 13, 15)

- Abraham's faith wavered at times (e.g., passing off Sarah as his sister in Egypt)

Human Impatience vs God's Timing

- After 10 years without children, Sarah suggested using Hagar as a surrogate (Gen 16)

- Cultural practice, but not aligned with God's plan

- Led to long-term consequences (Ishmael's lineage)

- Illustrates the principle: "If you want it bad, you get it bad"

Patriarchal Legacy

- Biblical patriarchs were flawed humans, not idealized heroes

- Their stories show both positive examples and cautionary tales

- Modern fathers/grandfathers have significant impact on future generations

- Importance of reconciliation and positive relationships in families

God's Interaction Today

- Genesis reveals God's ongoing plan for humanity

- We should expect God to respond to us, but often requires patience

- Faith can waver, but obedience and trust are key

- God is forgiving and uses our experiences for growth (sanctification)

Next Steps

- Reflect on personal "patriarchal" influence and legacy

- Practice patience in waiting for God's timing and answers

- Learn from biblical examples to balance faith with human tendencies

Apply the principle

Faith in God’s step-by-step plan for our lives

Pray before you leap

Expect God to respond

Wait for His answerr

Learn obedience; wisdom

Don’t want it bad