Context and Background:
Abram, later known as Abraham, is a central figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the Book of Genesis. His account is foundational to the understanding of faith and covenant in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Abram's journey of faith is marked by moments of doubt and divine reassurance, particularly concerning God's promises to him.

Biblical Account:
The account of Abram's doubt and God's promise is primarily found in Genesis 15. After a series of events, including his separation from Lot and a victorious battle against the kings, Abram experiences a moment of doubt regarding God's promise of offspring and land.

Abram's Doubt:
In Genesis 15:1-3 , the narrative begins with God speaking to Abram in a vision: "After these events, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: 'Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.'" Despite this reassurance, Abram expresses his concern about his childlessness: "But Abram replied, 'Lord GOD, what can You give me, since I remain childless and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?' Abram continued, 'Behold, You have given me no offspring, so a servant in my household will be my heir.'"

Abram's doubt is rooted in the apparent contradiction between God's promise of numerous descendants and his current situation of having no children. This moment of doubt is significant as it highlights the human struggle to trust in divine promises when circumstances seem contrary.

God's Promise:
In response to Abram's doubt, God reaffirms His promise with a powerful declaration and a symbolic act. Genesis 15:4-5 records God's response: "Then the word of the LORD came to him, saying, 'This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir.' And the LORD took him outside and said, 'Now look to the heavens and count the stars, if you are able.' Then He told him, 'So shall your offspring be.'"

This promise is not only verbal but also visual, as God uses the stars to illustrate the vastness of Abram's future descendants. The imagery of the stars serves as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness and the certainty of His promise.

Covenant Ceremony:
To further solidify His promise, God establishes a covenant with Abram. In Genesis 15:9-10, 17-18 , God instructs Abram to prepare a sacrifice: "The LORD said to him, 'Bring Me a heifer, a goat, and a ram, each three years old, along with a turtledove and a young pigeon.' So Abram brought all these to Him, split each of them down the middle, and laid the halves opposite each other; but he did not cut the birds."

As the sun sets, a deep sleep falls upon Abram, and God reveals the future of his descendants, including their eventual enslavement and liberation. The covenant is then ratified in a dramatic scene: "When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot and a flaming torch appeared and passed between the halves of the carcasses. On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, 'To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great River Euphrates.'"

Significance:
Abram's doubt and God's promise underscore the theme of faith and divine assurance. Despite Abram's initial uncertainty, God's reaffirmation and the covenant ceremony provide a profound assurance of His commitment. This narrative illustrates the dynamic relationship between human doubt and divine faithfulness, setting the stage for Abram's continued journey of faith and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through his lineage.