Full Obedience

Abraham and Terah provide a contrast in full obedience vs. part-way obedience. Learn from their examples.

“Terah took his son Abram … they departed together from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to the land of Canaan; and they went as far as Haran, and settled there.”—Genesis 11:31 NASB

Who was Terah? We know much about his son Abraham, but little about this man himself.

Terah and his ancestors had lived “in Ur of the Chaldeans.” This was their home, the place where his sons were married. But Terah decided to move his family to settle in Canaan.

Terah was willing to step out and move into the unknown, leaving behind his traditions, friends, and comforts. He must have been a man with great courage and boldness. Even though he had a large family and many resources, he uprooted everything in order to pursue God’s calling.

In this way, Terah provided a model and encouragement for Abraham when he stepped out on his own journey of faith.

But the Bible also tells us Terah did not have the same kind of dedication to God that characterized his son. Terah “served other gods” (Joshua 24:2). As a result, he never arrived at his goal, but traveled just halfway and settled in Haran.

If Abraham, who did eventually settle in Canaan, became the great role model and father of faith, Terah became an example of those who go only part way, content with less than God has for them, never reaching their God-given goals.

Stay faithful to God, and don’t compromise by seeking “other gods.” Don’t be content with good enough or part-way obedience, but seek God’s will and fulfill His call on your life.

Reflection Question: How is God calling you to step out in faith today?