Scripture
“Some time later, God tested Abraham’s faith. ‘Abraham!’ God called. ‘Yes,’ he replied. ‘Here I am.’ ‘Take your son, your only son—yes, Isaac, whom you love so much—and go to the land of Moriah. Go and sacrifice him as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you.’”
Genesis 22:1-2
Observation
Abraham only saw God’s promise been fulfilled when he was 100 years old. But now, God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son as a burnt offering.
I cannot imagine the millions of thoughts that Abraham had along the way to that mountain. But the Bible does not describe any sight of doubt in his heart, he just went through everything and obeyed God.
When his son asked where is the animal to be sacrificed Abraham answers:
“‘God will provide a sheep for the burnt offering, my son,’” Abraham answered. And they both walked on together.”
Genesis 22:8
Abraham walked up the mountain bringing his son as sacrifice knowing that God would provide a way because God’s promises never fail.
Application
God asked for Isaac to be sacrificed, the long waited promised son, but what God really wanted was Abraham’s heart. God said:
“‘Don’t lay a hand on the boy!’ the angel said. ‘Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son.’”
Genesis 22:12
Usually, what God asks us to give to Him isn’t something we don’t appreciate but are the things we give most value, things that we treasure, things that we want to keep it safe and for ourselves.
What is my Isaac? Is it my time? Is it my finances? is it my career? Is it my family?
God asked for Isaac but wanted Abraham.
For whatever God asks us, He will provide.
“Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means ‘the Lord will provide’). To this day, people still use that name as a proverb: ‘On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.’”
Genesis 22:14
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you are God that never fail in fulfill your promises to my life. Help me to obey your directions in my life, even when I cannot comprehend the full scope of what you are doing behind the scenes. Help me to see what are the Isaacs in my life which you are asking me to give it to you. In Jesus’ name, I pray.
