The weary, young man walked with determined steps. He knew this mission to the region of Moriah was serious and very important. He could see it in his father’s somber face. They had walked for three days. Even the servants who led the donkey sensed this was no ordinary journey. They were going to offer a burnt offering to Almighty God. But something was different about this planned sacrifice.
The young man’s father had gathered and cut the wood. The servants had arranged it on the donkey’s back. The father had carried the knife and fire pot all this distance. Now the young man was carrying the wood and they had left the donkey and servants behind while he and his father journeyed on ahead. The question burning in the young man’s heart was finally spoken. “Father, where is the lamb for the burnt offering?”
With the confidence of one who completely trusts the Almighty the father said, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.”
This story about Abraham and his son, Isaac is recorded in Genesis 22. One can only imagine what words were said or not said as the father binds his son and places him on the wood. Just as the father takes the knife to slay his son, God stops him. Abraham has passed the test. God provided the ram for the burnt offering and Isaac was spared.
Abraham trusted God so much he believed God would raise Isaac from the dead. (Hebrews 11:19) So he was willing to sacrifice even his own son. That is strong faith! Future generations were blessed because of that faith! Through Isaac’s descendants the whole world has been blessed by the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus. All who choose Jesus are blessed with the promise of life everlasting.
I often fail to trust God and when I read this account of Abraham I’m reminded again. I worship the same God Abraham worshipped. Why is it so hard to trust Him? It’s when I focus too much on “me” and not enough on God. I allow my troubles to get between me and God. The writer of Hebrews (after listing those great heroes of faith) gives hope to us who struggle.
“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:2-3).
I can trust the Almighty with every part of my life! I have Jesus at God’s throne interceding for me and the example of numerous “faith walkers” who went before me. God keeps His promises!