God Promises to Bless Abram

Genesis 12:1-9

The Big Idea

God’s promises can help us trust Him, even when we do not know every detail of the path ahead.

The Bible Story

God Calls Abram

In Genesis 12:2-3, God promises Abram that he will become a great nation, that God will bless him, make his name great, and make him a blessing. God also says that those who bless Abram will be blessed, those who dishonor him will be dishonored, and all families of the earth will be blessed through him. These promises come as Abram is called to leave his country, relatives, and father’s household for a land God will show him. The passage presents God’s promise without explaining how or when each part will be fulfilled. It also does not describe God as a human figure. This scene should keep attention on God’s word to Abram, Abram’s wonder, and the promise that blessing will reach families of the earth.

Themes

Blessing to all families of the earth Faithful obedience God’s call God’s promise and blessing Leaving familiar surroundings Worship during the journey

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Abram looks upward in wonder as God’s promises are represented through wholesome visual symbols: a growing family or community, joyful people from many families, and a warm light suggesting blessing. Keep the promise central without illustrating its later fulfillment.

Talk together

Talk about it

What did God promise Abram?
How did Abram respond to God’s call?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to help children notice God’s promises and Abram’s trusting response. Invite them to identify the people traveling with Abram and the symbols of blessing. Avoid presenting later fulfillment or adding details not included in Genesis 12:1-9.

Source note