The LORD said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others.”
Genesis 12:1-2 (NLT)
The story of Abraham connected with me when I left my home at a young age to begin my adult life and career. My family had lived in eastern Kentucky since the time of Daniel Boone, my distant cousin. I was blessed to have been accepted at the University of Miami Medical School and found myself leaving all that was familiar, just as Abraham had done when he left his home in Haran.
At the age of 14, I felt called by God to be an ophthalmologist. So even though I had a sense of purpose, traveling from the mountains of eastern Kentucky to an unknown city was a huge step. I can relate to how Abraham must have felt when he left on his journey. Like Abraham, I had faith that God was with me and that I would face the future with His guidance. Stepping into the amphitheater classroom for that first class in Miami was a very stressful and scary experience. There were many times during my training when I depended heavily on my Comforter and Counselor, Jesus Christ.
My mother did a great job raising me; she always told me not to worry about anything and not be timid or afraid. She quoted many encouraging Bible verses such as, “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” Joshua 1:9, NLT. The truth found in Scripture and Abraham’s story can be our lifeline when we feel that God is leading us toward a new destination, job, ministry, or vocation. God was there for Abraham, He has been with me throughout my life, and He will be there for you!
by Jim Croley
Learn more about Abraham in the series “Heroes with Feet of Clay” on Life Academy.
