Go, Trust, Believe: Leading from the Foot and a Half
listen to genesis 12-15
Reflection on Genesis 12–15
Every great leader has a “Go” moment—the call to step into the unknown, leave comfort behind, and walk by faith. In Genesis 12–15, we meet Abram, who receives that call. But what unfolds is more than a story of obedience; it’s a journey of learning to lead from the foot and a half—that sacred space between what you know in your head and what you must believe in your heart.
Called Before Clarity (Genesis 12)
“Go from your country… to the land I will show you.” (12:1)
Abram’s leadership journey begins not with a map, but with a promise. God calls him to leave behind everything familiar and walk into the unknown. That’s the foot and a half in motion: leading before having all the answers.
Abram obeys, and God responds:
“I will make you into a great nation… and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” (12:2–3)
This isn’t just about personal blessing. It’s about impact, influence, and legacy—hallmarks of kingdom-minded leadership.
Failing While Following (Genesis 12:10–20)
Soon after stepping out in faith, Abram faces a famine and flees to Egypt. There, he lies about Sarai being his sister. Fear takes over faith.
Even great leaders falter. And yet, God’s faithfulness isn’t dependent on Abram’s perfection. It’s a key leadership lesson:
You can fail and still be called.
You can mess up and still move forward—as long as your heart stays surrendered.
Choosing Peace Over Power (Genesis 13)
When Abram and Lot’s flocks grow too large to share the land, conflict arises. Abram could’ve asserted authority, but instead, he lets Lot choose first.
“Let’s not have quarreling… If you go left, I’ll go right.” (13:8–9)
This is mature leadership—choosing peace over position, humility over control. The foot and a half here is letting go of what you think you deserve to make space for God to provide.
And He does. After Lot leaves, God tells Abram:
“Lift up your eyes… all the land that you see I will give to you.” (13:14–15)
When you choose integrity, God expands your vision.
Fighting with Honor, Giving with Grace (Genesis 14)
Abram rescues Lot from captivity and defeats powerful kings—but refuses to take any reward. He gives glory to God and honors Melchizedek, the priest of God Most High, with a tithe.
“I have raised my hand to the Lord… I will accept nothing.” (14:22–23)
This is values-based leadership. Abram knows who he serves and won’t let wealth or politics cloud his calling. That’s leadership with both head conviction and heart allegiance.
Promise Over Proof (Genesis 15)
“Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” (15:1)
Abram wants a son, an heir—but God gives a deeper promise. He invites Abram to believe beyond what he can see:
“Look up at the sky and count the stars… So shall your offspring be.” (15:5)
Then comes the turning point:
“Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.” (15:6)
That’s the essence of leadership in the foot and a half—believing the promise even when the evidence hasn’t arrived.
Leadership Lessons from Genesis 12–15
Step into the unknown: God doesn’t give maps—He gives mission.
Fall forward: Faithful leaders sometimes fail, but they always return to trust.
Lead with peace and integrity: Let your heart stay soft, even when your position is strong.
Refuse to be bought: Don’t trade influence for applause.
Believe before you see: Faith is the fuel of every lasting legacy.
Takeaway:
Genesis 12–15 shows that leadership begins with a “yes,” grows through mistakes, and matures through trust. The foot and a half is the space Abram walked every day—between what God promised and what hadn’t yet happened. And that’s exactly where the greatest leaders are formed.
