FAITH CAPSULE: Abraham’s love gained heaven’s attention.

Genesis 22
 
Abraham was seventy five years old when he left home because he chose to love and serve God by fulfilling God’s call for his life. Abraham demonstrated his love when he moved in obedience to an unknown location. Through the journey of Abraham’s life, his love for God was constantly by God. However, the strongest demonstration of his love for God emerged after the birth of his son Isaac. God said to Abraham, “…take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” (Genesis 22:2) God’s repeated emphasis on Isaac’s status to Abraham before mentioning Isaac for sacrifice was not enough for Abraham to deny God. Abraham demonstrated what it means to love with all our heart when he followed through and obeyed the instructions of God. Abraham resumed the journey of obedience at the early hour.
“Then on the third day Abraham lifted his eyes and saw the place afar off.” (Genesis 22:4) It took Abraham three days to get to the ground of sacrifice. Abraham’s taking of his one and only son that he loved, on a three days journey must have been exhausting. Also, knowing fully well that the son was to die should have taken away all his strength as he went on for three days. Despite all, he continued because he loved God with all his strength.
Abraham also demonstrated his love with all his soul when he carried out the sacrifice in his heart. “Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slay his son.” (Genesis 22:10) Abraham’s attempt called for heaven’s attention and the angel called on Abraham, “Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.”(Genesis 22:12) By not withholding and being so willing to sacrifice his one and only son, Abraham clearly demonstrated how much he loved God with all his heart, strength and soul. Oftentimes we withhold from God by not letting go where there is a need to let go for His glory. Many believers proclaim that they love God, but it is easier said than done because actions speak louder than words. Loving God by demonstration rather than by word of mouth should be constantly seen in the life of every believer. Nowadays, it seems as though believers are often found to be identified with lying, deception and manipulation instead of demonstrating more of God’s love. It is impossible to love God and not constantly demonstrate loving others. Do you love God? Think about your love for God.

Prayer for today:Ask God for the grace to love Him and only in every area of life.