Hesitating in Haran

A cursory reading of the Genesis account of Abraham’s pilgrimage to Canaan might lead you to believe that he received his call in the city of Haran after his father Terah’s death. There is a hint of “more to the story” in Genesis 11:31 when the whole family starts out for Canaan, but they settle in Haran. Stephen, in his final sermon (Acts 7) clears this up for us. He tells us that “the God of glory appeared to Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran,” and that is where God called him to Canaan (vv. 2-3).

Some scholars believe Abraham may have “hesitated” at least 15 years in Haran before moving on after Terah’s (“delay” in Hebrew) death (11:32). We know from Genesis 12:5 that he accumulated possessions and acquired persons for his household while in Haran. It would appear he was there long enough to become at least moderately wealthy.

It would be a misconception to believe that the accumulation of material wealth and possessions always constitutes the blessing of God. Abraham gained these things, but in Haran we hear no fresh word from God; we see no altar; we observe no worship. No victories are won and there is no progress on the great promises of God. All these things are “on hold” in Haran.

Someone had to die before Abraham moved on to the land of God’s promises. How true it often is, that if we are to press forward to all that God has for us, something or someone must be surrendered to His design for our life. Until this happens, we are “hesitating in Haran,” and postponing His promises for us. Like Abraham’s, those promises are more daring than we can dream, and more perfect than we can plan. Oh, that we would not be held back from them by Terah – delay!

Let me encourage you. God is calling you right where you are. Don’t hesitate in Haran—or anywhere else! Move on to the land of God’s promises!