(Read the previous devotion here.)
Genesis 22:1–19
Isaac said to his father Abraham, “Father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” He said, “The fire and the wood are here, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?”
Abraham said, “God himself will provide the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” So the two of them walked on together.
Genesis 22:7-8
In Genesis 22:1-19, we read of Abraham and God’s command to sacrifice his son Isaac. This story shows not only the faith of Abraham, but that of Isaac as well.
Abraham was 100 at Isaac’s birth. At this point, Isaac was old enough to carry a load of wood, so he was not some small child. Isaac must have grown tremendous faith, perhaps by observing his father all his life. When the time came for the sacrifice, Isaac must have allowed his father to tie him up and place him on the altar. They both were obedient, trusting fully in God. At the last minute, God’s angel stopped the test, and as promised, Isaac produced Abraham’s descendants—God’s chosen people.
How do we develop similar faith? Like anything else we wish to get better at: practice and exercise. And what is faith? One definition: “Trusting in something that is not verifiable.” Is God unverifiable? Not necessarily. Through science, we know way more facts of our miracle existence than ever. And God is always with us; we need only ask Him to reveal Himself, and He will. How can we do this? Start with reading God’s word and talking with God through prayer. He wants His children to talk with him.
Praise and thank Him for the miracle of life. God will give evidence of His existence. With that reassurance, our awareness of Him will grow, as will our faith. Surround yourself with others seeking to improve their faith. Join a fellowship group. Allow yourself to be encouraged so you can serve God and be encouraging to others.
Prayer:
Dear Father, thank You for examples of faith shared through scripture. Thank You for the evidence of Your existence through Your amazing creation. Help us to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We ask in Jesus’ name.
Rick Owens
(Read the next devotion here.)
