NOV 30

Genesis 22:1-24
Memorise Genesis 22:12 "Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest"

Isaac had grown into a fine young man. He was probably in his teens by now, and was a filial son of a doting father. He was the joy of this elderly couple’s heart, and they loved him more dearly than anything else in the world. He was the chosen son that they had been waiting for, and now God had finally answered. It seemed everything was well, and life was good.

However, it was here that God decided to test Abraham. God appeared to him, and told him "take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering" (Genesis 22:2). This would have come as a huge shock and a great blow to Abraham. Was this not the chosen heir whom God had promised? Had they not gone through so much just to get this son? And now God wants him to kill Isaac? All these doubts and questions must have been racing through Abraham’s mind. How could he bring himself to sacrifice the son whom he loved so dearly!

Nonetheless Abraham obeyed. He made the necessary preparations and set off with Isaac, though not telling him what exactly they were to do. Every step he took must have weighed heavily upon his heart, knowing that it brought him closer and closer to a task which he dreaded to face. Finally coming to the place which God appointed, "Abraham built an alter there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood" (Genesis 22:9). All this, he did by faith, not fully understanding what was going on, but trusting and believing in the God whom he loved. Then, as he raised his knife, all ready to plunge it into his very own flesh and blood, God called out to him, and intervened at the final moment.

Abraham passed the test! God told him "for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me" (Genesis 22:12). It was not that God did not know, but it was a test for Abraham to learn and know for himself, that above all, God must take first place in his life. As much as he loved his son, he could not allow that love to overshadow the love that he had for God. This is a principle that we must all learn as well – that we must never allow anything at all to take God’s position of prominence in our lives.

Thought: Are there any idols in my heart that have taken God’s place?
Prayer: Lord, help me love thee with all my heart, soul, and might.

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