OTC Day 11: Genesis 23-24

A great story can change your life. Whether is a good TV show, a movie or a tale told around a campfire, a compelling story begs to be retold. God’s story drives Genesis 24—the telling of faith in God’s promises, of God’s provision, of God’s sovereignty and kindness. Abraham initially tells the story and starts process. And, much like a game of “Telephone”, every subsequent hearer is moved to action by the story and passes it along.

This should be normal for the Christian life. The telling and retelling of God’s working in our lives not only lifts the hearts of others, but it actually completes joy as well. Consider these verses from the Psalms:

I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.
– Psalm 9:1

Come and listen, all you who fear God; let me tell you what he has done for me. – Psalm 66:16

My mouth will tell of your righteousness, of your salvation all day long, though I know not its measure. – Psalm 71:15

We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.
– Psalm 78:4

As C.S. Lewis famously said, “I think we delight to praise what we enjoy because the praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment; it is its appointed consummation.” (Reflections on the Psalms)

Today, consider the promises God has made for you, the ways he has blessed you, and find ways to tell and retell these things. Who knows? In doing so you may just complete your joy and consummate your praise.


1. Can you remember the last good story you heard that really moved you? Was it in a book? A movie? Did someone tell it to you? How did it change you?

2. The word gospel literally means “good news”. As Christians we are to be telling and retelling the one thing that has most shaped and changed our lives. Is it one that you tell often? Do you tell it well? Do you love to share the story?

3. Have you experienced what C.S. Lewis speaks of in his quote, an event or experience that was incredible in itself but you only experienced full joy in it after expressing and sharing it with another? Describe.