Passing the test

By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had received the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.”
Hebrews 11:17-18, NIV

God tested Abraham, and he passed the test with flying colours. No test could be more challenging. Isaac meant everything to Abraham. He was the child of promise through whom the purposes of God would be fulfilled and Abraham is asked to sacrifice him as a burnt offering.

Abraham believed God. He believed that in the end God would work it out right and so in faith he builds the altar on the mountain and lays his son upon it. The test seems to be God's way of revealing how much Abraham honours and loves Him.

The promise given to Abraham earlier (Genesis 12:2-3) rested on obedience. When Abraham passed the ultimate test, having proved his obedience to and love for God, the original promise was confirmed with a divine oath. The fulfilment of the promises is linked to Abraham's faithful obedience.

We too will have times when our faith is tested. The promises of God in Scripture are always linked to obedience. Faith is ongoing. We grow in faith as we trust God and take steps of obedience. As we obey in the smaller things He trusts us with the greater things.

Faith and obedience go hand in hand. Our willingness to obey God is a measure of how much we trust Him. Is there a test that you need to pass? Is there some situation in your life today where you need to take a step of faith and trust God with the outcome?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your dealings in my life. Thank You that in all things You work for the good of those who love You. Help me today to put my trust in You and to walk in obedience to You. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

Amen