Todays Reading Genesis 22-24
Focal Scripture: Genesis 22:12 “Then he said, “Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him. For now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from me.”
Taking a test is usually not a fun experience. Getting a test from God means he needs to reveal something in us so we can be prepared for what comes next. This is where Abraham finds himself. Abraham has done everything that the LORD has commanded. Abraham has finally seen the promised son born. Now the Bible tells us that God tested Abraham. God commanded Abraham to take his son and provide him as a burnt offering and he was going to be the one to put him on the altar.
We know from the rest of the story that Isaac questioned where the animal was on their journey. Abraham said that God will provide the Lamb for the sacrifice. One way or another something or someone was going to be sacrificed on top of that mountain. We also know that scripture tells us that father and son didn’t argue, not many questions were asked, and they both demonstrated tremendous faith. Isaac had complete faith that Abraham knew what he was doing. Abraham had complete faith that God would keep his promise and that Isaac was going to be the son of promise.
Scripture tells us that at the last moment God tells Abraham to stop before he commits the sacrifice. Then a sacrifice was found.
This story reveals an important fact about Abraham. He had complete faith and trust in God. Abraham just didn’t talk about his faith he put it into action and he would do exactly what God asked.
So the question must be asked that most of us dread. Do we have something in our lives that we are holding onto more than we are willing to obey God. Abraham was tested with his son. You may be tested with your high paying job. Maybe it is a personal possession that you treasure. It could be that you need to move away from your grandchildren so you can be on mission for God.
The challenge that needs to be taken from this scripture today is are you devoted to Christ above everything else. How far are you willing to follow God? I pray today that you will surrender all you have to Christ. You will know true peace when you finally surrender everything you have to God.
Go make your journey up the mountain today prepared to burn whatever you are holding onto.
Tomorrow I plan on reading Genesis 25-27
