The Believer's Witness is shown by lifestyle actions

Others should recognize the presence of God in our lives (Gen 21:22)

Explanation: Abraham had been living in Gerar for at least 4 years. Over that period of time, Abimelech had observed the Patriarch’s walk with God and his blessings from God. It was more than just realizing that Abraham had riches - he was probably not the only well heeled nomad in the neighborhood. Abimelech saw enough of Abraham’s lifestyle to realize that the blessings were the result of his worship of the One True God

Argument: Remember that Abraham’s initial meeting with Abimelech did not go well. Abraham lied to Abimelech and Abimelech’s household suffered for the lie for a period of time. By a life of steady witness of living for God, Abraham was able to influence Abimelech in a positive manner.

Application: Believers who stumble CAN be restored and God CAN and will still use us. It does, however, require time to establish credibility.

Are you and I living in such a way that others can recognize that we belong to God?

A willingness to help others is a great witness for God’s Glory (Gen 21:23-24)

Explanation: Abimelech wants to establish a pact for mutual well-being between his people and the people of Abraham. The King is making the request, but Abraham is not obligated to join. Abraham’s positive response indicates that he is not prideful or simply looking out for his own family’s interests

Argument: It is good for believers to promote the interests and well-being of others, when possible to do so without compromising biblical convictions. Christ followers should be marked by a concern for others. We are not called to be isolationists who retreat into holy huddles.

Initiating Conflict Resolution CAN be a witness to God’s Glory (Genesis 21:25-27)

Explanation: The leaders of the two groups made the decision for mutual cooperation, but the edict did not reach down to guys on the ground. Some of Abimelech’s boys decide to take possession of one of the water wells that belonged to Abraham. The text does not supply the details of the exchange between the 2 groups, but Abraham at some point knows what has occurred.

Decision time:

Abraham could haven chosen to ignore the fact that his stuff had been taken.

Abraham could have ordered his boys to take it back

Instead, Abraham chose to bring the incident to Abimelech’s attention in an effort to bring about a peaceful resolution.

Argument: It is easy to make a decision or come to an agreement; it is more difficult to flesh out the details over time. We live in a fallen world and the negative influence of sin permeates all of our actions. The focal point for the believer is how to deal with the effects of sin in relationships with others. Believers are not called to be door mats and just let the world walk over us, but we are not called to respond in kind either.

Application: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God (Matt 5:9). We who name the Name of Christ have the responsibility to initiate the process of making peace. Peace will NOT be the result in every situation (the effects of sin), but it is on us to be the ones who are willing to make a real effort.

When the Believer takes the High Road in personal relationships the result is God receiving more Glory (Genesis 21:28-34)