Abraham overcame three challenges in Genesis 18:1-10.  First, he had pain from his bris (circumcision).  Second, it was a very hot day.  And third, he was in the presence of God.  Nonetheless, he ignored God and helped the three strangers.

When Abraham saw the three strangers from his tent, he ran to them and bowed down.  He asked them if he could serve them.  They said yes.  He gave them water to drink and wash their feet, and he let them sit in the shade.  He went to get food and hurried everyone to prepare the best food quickly.  Abraham served them himself and stayed with them as they ate.  For these actions (and his past history), Abraham (100-years old) and Sarah (90-years old) were rewarded with a future son.

Was God upset that Abraham ignored him? No! God admired Abraham’s behavior toward the three strangers, and God felt it was more important to help a fellow human being than God himself.  The reward was beyond the laws of nature because the couple was so old.

We need to ignore our challenges and provide great service to our fellow man.  We need to get involved ourselves and anticipate the needs of others.  And if we do this, God will break the laws of nature to help us too! Notice, this occurred in chapter 18, and 18 is associated with help and life!