Take Two: Genesis 22, Proverbs 13

Genesis 22 is a difficult chapter to relate to because it involves Abraham's sacrifice of Isaac. In our mindset (at least my own as a father and as someone who has followed God for a number of years now) it is troubling to think that (1) God would ask Abraham to offer his son as an offering, and (2) that Abraham would even consider complying.

Keeping in mind what Abraham was willing to risk to this point is helpful. He has twice lied and asked Sarah to lie about being his wife. This is significant because these were attempts to provide for himself to protect himself and/or his family. The sin with Hagar. Abraham and Sarah agreed to provide in a way they thought was best to give Abraham an heir.

As we can see, the stories in Genesis are selective and communicate a point. Abraham has been in a process, on a journey, to learning what it means to surrender all to God and trust Him in every way.

Now the greatest test I can ever imagine. Will you take your son Isaac and sacrifice him at the Lord's request (Gen 22:2)? God doesn't ask questions...He provides tests. Many people "say" they are something or believe something...but God says "show me something."

Abraham, Isaac and two servants begin walking toward the mountain. It is a 3 day journey. Lots of time to consider turning back. Gen 22:5 gives a glimpse of Abraham's belief about the event. He stated that he and the boy would go worship and return. Gen 22:7 reveals the question from Isaac, "where is the sacrifice?" Abraham responded that God would provide his own lamb for the sacrifice (Gen 22:8).

PAUSE: Not only is this a great time of commitment for Abraham, but it is a great time of teaching for Isaac. He is learning, by example, what it is to live surrendered to the Will of God.

The test continued through the construction of the altar, and even the binding of Isaac. It was not until Abraham raised the knife that God intervened and provided a ram for the altar (Gen 22:9-13). Abraham had learned "dependence" and "trust" well. He demonstrated his Faith...not in word alone, but also in deed. That place of worship became known as "Jehoveh Jireh" (the Lord will Provide). {Remember...names mean something.}

In Gen 22:15-19, God reaffirms his covenant promise to bless Abraham. God swore by Himself to bring the blessing about. There was nothing/no one higher to swear by.

Gen 22:20-24 give a genealogy of Nahor's descendents...which includes Rebekah.

CONSIDERATION: What is your "Isaac?" What is it that is so precious to you that you might not commit it to God? What or who is off-limits. I meet folks at times who tell me that they will never go to the mission field if it means leaving their parents, children, grandchildren, or other close friends. Their Isaac is a relationship. Others won't pursue a calling becuase it would require training in college or seminary...and that would require sacrificing time or fun activities. Their "Isaac" is these things. Still others don't want to risk failure or loss of security or a career change. Their "Isaac" may be PRIDE. What is yours?

Whatever it is...learn this from Abraham. He provided the "Isaac." He gave you that which is now so precious that you might withhold it from the "Giver" of all that is good. No greater worship exists than to lay it all on the altar and yield it to Jehoveh Jireh...knowing He is the God who provides.

Proverbs 13:13 is the takeaway today. The Word is the Word. God's Word is unchanging. God is unchanging. The one who fights against it (despises it) is indebted to it. In other words, the Word shall be his judge. The one who abides by the Word...he is delivered by it. The Word is not his judge, but his guide. How do you treat the commands of God in your life?