In Genesis 22, we see Abraham being tested by God. God tells Abraham to take his son and sacrifice him on an altar up on a mountain. Abraham obeys and is ready to do it but the Lord stops him saying, (22:12)"Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.”
If we take a closer look, someone else was on the altar that day. Abraham's heart was!
1. Abraham surrendered to God by faith though he did not understand all of the circumstances of what was happening. (v3)
2. Abraham considered his sacrifice an act of worship. He said to his servants, (22:5) “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.”
3. Abraham fully prepared with his heart to do what the Lord asked. He didn't obey half-heartedly. (22:6) Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife.
4. Abraham knew that whatever happened, God was going to provide. (22:8) Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” He even named the place, The Lord Will Provide.
5. Abraham's fear of the Lord and trust was proved. (22:12) Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.”
What are we being asked to put on the altar of our hearts to give to God? A job? A relationship?
We may not always get what we want from the Lord but he has promised to provide for our needs.
Maybe God is preparing you for something better, seeing how much he can entrust you with and how much you will trust Him. Remember, he knows your motives for what you are doing. Proverbs 16:22 All a person's ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the LORD.
We need to seek Him and bring all of ourselves as a holy living sacrifice.
And here's the big question. Will we be satisfied if all He provides is Himself?
Russ Lee - Satisfied In You:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TZ7Z__mN-M
