Meditation
BECAUSE YOU HAVE OBEYED MY VOICE
Text: Genesis 22
3 June 2018
THE TESTING OF OUR FAITH IN GOD
Abraham was tested in his faith in God. The principle of testing is something that God seems to do with all who express faith in Him! Testing need not be feared if our faith in Him is genuine and strong.
A VERY CHALLENGING TEST
The test given to Abraham was a difficult one. The Lord said,
Take now your son, your only son Isaac,
Whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah,
And offer him there as a burnt offering
On one of the mountains of which I shall tell you. Genesis 22:2
- God knew Abraham loved his son dearly
- But he was asked to offer Isaac as a burnt offering
Without a deep understanding of God and a strong faith, this word of the Lord would be virtually impossible to fulfil!
MARKS OF FAITH SEEN IN ABRAHAM
The following features may be noted about Abraham’s faith in the Lord. His obedience stood out significantly.
- He obeyed promptly
a) He rose up early in the morning
b) He set off while it was still early in the morning
- He prepared thoroughly
a) For the journey to Mount Moriah
b) He brought two servants along
c) He cut up the firewood
d) He brought Isaac along
e) He made the 3-day journey successfully
- He held on to his faith steadfastly
a) He believed that he and Isaac would return
b) He said that God would provide the sacrificial lamb for the offering
- He obeyed fully
a) He did not withhold Isaac his beloved son
b) He was prepared to obey God faithfully
GOD WAS PLEASED WITH ABRAHAM
God was certainly pleased with Abraham. He had proven that he feared God and that he would obey him to the letter! For his faith and obedience God confirmed His blessings promised to Abraham!