The first episode of the Abraham cycle articulates what God intended to do with Abram. The divine charge in 12:1-3 contains the program of the cycle. In it Yahweh makes some rather bold promises to Abraham, perhaps as incentive to get him moving. Having given up everything to follow Yahweh's lead, Abraham awaits fulfillment of the promises . . . but as years turn into decades Abraham verges on disillusionment. Still no children, still no land. Through various means, including the device of covenant, God maintains Abraham's hope.
