Every nation has its problems. Scripture is filled with examples of Israel’s failures, just as it is with the United States. These failures are the result of those we have chosen to lead our respective nations. The difference is that the United States is not mentioned in Scripture. Israel is. What would become the nation of Israel would have a unique global impact across the span of human history.

When Abram, who would become Abraham, lived with his family in Haran, “The Lord had 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 into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:1-3).

As Abram traveled toward the land the Lord had promised to him, the Lord once again confirmed His promise to Abram, “I will give this land to your descendants” (12:7).

After Abram and Lot graciously separated, they parted ways due to a dispute with their respective herdsmen regarding the immense flocks that were sharing the same pastureland. Abram settled in the land of Canaan.

The Lord spoke to Abram again, “Look as far as you can see in every direction—north and south, east and west. I am giving all this land, as far as you can see, to you and your descendants as a permanent possession” (13:14).

Because God made the land a permanent possession for Abraham and his descendants, no current national turmoil within the nation of Israel or a recent eschatological reinterpretation of the future can change the meaning of the word “permanent.” We need to allow God’s word to define our understanding of what is true and not follow our emotional disgust at what we see taking place when failed humans lead a nation.

No nation is perfect. This holds true for Israel. Our national imperfections do not negate God’s word, no matter where we live or how atrocious some actions might appear. Be careful of adopting a different understanding when these imperfections arise. They do not redefine the word “permanent.”