“To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams”. – (1 Samuel 15:22).

If we are going to live lives of faith, we must realize that our faith will be tested—not just once but many times over the course of our lifetime. We will experience great joy, but we also will have to face defining moments when the intent of our hearts is revealed and the level of our faith checked.

Abraham loved Isaac. Almost every time he looked at his son, he was reminded of the fulfillment of God’s promise to him. He had chosen to believe the Lord even at a point in his life when it seemed impossible to have a solid sense of faith.

Then came the day when the Lord made a request of him that did not seem to fit the nature and character of God. “Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about” (Genesis 22:2).

Few of us would know how to respond to a command like this one. More than likely, we would pray, “Surely God, You have made a mistake.” But Abraham never questioned God’s reasoning or judgment. Once again, he made preparations to obey the Lord.

Early the next morning, he saddled his donkey, gathered two of his servants and his son, and headed out to do what the Lord had asked him to do. Most of us know the conclusion to this story. God provided a ram as the sacrifice.

There may be times when the Lord requires you to be willing to give up something that you love deeply. However, He will never require you to harm another. He simply wants to know that your love for Him is not outweighed by something or someone else.

Prayer: Our Loving Heavenly Father, You, and You alone, are my first love. I pray that I will live my life in obedience to Your Word. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, In Jesus Loving Name I Pray, Amen.”