Recently, my daughters started new schools with new routines and new schedules. My grip on them has been tightened because I am uncertain about many things. Though I know better, the parent in me is afraid, nervous and running over with questions about how things will work out.
Abraham’s story in Genesis 22:1-18 is the exact opposite of my natural tendency. In fact, it is quite amazing to me. Every time I read it or hear it preached, I am humbled, amazed and convicted. It showcases Abraham’s complete trust in God, his full dependency on God’s ability to provide, and his total reliance on God’s promises. Abraham was able to do what many of us struggle with – loosening our grip. When we hold on to things and people, we stifle its ability to grow and to blossom the way God wants it to.
Loosen your grip. Release your fears and inhibitions. Lay those precious things on the altar as Abraham laid Isaac on the altar. By laying Isaac on the altar, Abraham reaffirmed his reliance on the giver of the gift. He willingly gave up the thing that meant the most to him because God asked Him to and because he knew that if God gave it to Him, surely God had a plan.
1. Are you willing to lay those precious things on the altar? Yes, all of them – marriage, children, gifts, talents, job, finances, health, spouse, relationships, business, ministry, family?
2. Will you be obedient in the areas God may be speaking in? God wants to know if you love Him more than the things/people he’s given you. Make the choice that obedience to God is more important than holding on to what you have. Though it is paradoxical, it is only in giving it up that God can bless it. God will open more doors that you can imagine (v.12-18).
3. Abraham knew that if he trusted God, God would provide for him– he had no other option but to believe. Indeed, God showed himself to be Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Will Provide). God may be testing you to see where your obedience lies – Resolve in your spirit that one way or the other, the Lord Provides.
Lord, I loosen my grip on all that is mine so that you can hold on to it all and do what you do best.
