Weekly Reflection – The Test of Obedience

Now it came about after these things, that God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you.”

— GENESIS 22:1-2

Few biblical narratives rival Abraham’s offering of Isaac in its drama, detail, and devotion. Abraham is silent as he deliberately and meticulously follows God’s instructions. Only his reply to Isaac’s question about what they were to sacrifice on their trek up the mountain gives a clue to his level of faith: “God will provide for Himself the lamb for the burnt offering, my son” (Genesis 22:8).

Abraham did not know he was being tested but obeyed nonetheless, believing that God would remain true to His promise. Israel’s patriarch had experienced God’s goodness and faithfulness on his journey from Ur. He believed that God could raise the dead (Hebrews 11:17-19). These absolute truths strengthened Abraham to put his faith into action and obey God, no matter the struggle (James 2).

The same God who sustained Abraham at every moment upholds the IDF in their righteous mission against terrorists today—and upholds you too. Defender of Israel, consider: How can you trust Him anew in your life?

God speaks to those who are close enough to hear and are ready to do what He asks. Partial obedience is considered disobedience—to hear God’s voice and not do what it commands is to reject it. On the other hand, obedience is not a series of repetitive religious rituals and exercises, it is a result of an intimate relationship with the Creator. Because of Samuel’s submissive spirit and reverent bond with his earthly master—he was chosen to become the spokesman of his heavenly Master.

The God of Samuel is certainly with you today—every step you take, He is there. May He lead you continually into His presence as you devote yourself to faithfully obeying His Word—including His biblical mandate to bless and comfort Israel and the Jewish people—and may you be deeply blessed in relationship with Him.