Scripture to Read: Genesis 22:9-14
We come to the point in Genesis 22 where we see both Abraham and Isaac’s faith on full display. The point must be made here that no one had ever been raised from the dead at this point in Scripture, in Genesis 22. Nevertheless, according to Hebrews 11, Abraham had grown so much in his faith in the 35 plus years since age 75 that Abraham believed (trusted in, clung to, relied on) the fact that God could raise his son, Isaac, from the dead. Hebrews 11:17-19 says, By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was in the act of offering up his only son, 18 of whom it was said, “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.” 19 He considered that God was able even to raise him from the dead, from which, figuratively speaking, he did receive him back. So, Abraham never doubted what God could do, even if it meant taking Isaac’s life. We also see that Isaac trusted his father, Abraham, completely. Isaac asked Abraham about the sacrifice, and Abraham’s response was, in Genesis 22:8, “God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” Then, as we read Genesis 22:9-14, we see how Isaac willingly let Abraham tie him up and lay him on the altar. Again, incredible faith. Then God spoke to Abraham at the point that Abraham was going to sacrifice his son. Then God also provided a substitutionary sacrifice by providing a ram. Again, Abraham never doubted, and God supplied abundantly.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about Abraham’s faith and also Isaac’s faith?
2. How do you see your faith growing each day? How do you see God testing your faith in Him and His Word?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!