In Genesis 22, God tests Abraham by calling him to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. This test reveals his faith and teaches us this truth:

Real faith sacrifices, because real faith trusts the Lord to provide. 

We might wonder why God is testing Abraham—we read in Gen 15:6 that Abraham believed God and it was counted to him as righteousness. Like us, he was saved by grace through faith, but also like us his faith sometimes wavered. He was self-reliant, and fearful, so God brings this test to reveal the genuineness of Abraham’s faith.

Abraham’s actions show his deep trust in God. He responded immediately (going first thing in the morning, v. 3), and intentionally (gathering his materials and going to the place, v. 3-9). 

Abraham responded like this because he deeply trusted the Lord to provide. He speaks confidently about the boy coming back with him (v. 5) and he tells Isaac the Lord will provide the lamb (v. 7-8). And Abraham’s faith was vindicated, as God provided the ram to be sacrificed instead of Isaac.

Is there something God is calling you to sacrifice for his kingdom? Do you trust the Lord to provide? Do you see all that he has already provided in Christ?

God gave “his son, his only Son, whom [he] loves” to be the sacrifice for sin. God provided Christ as the Lamb of God who takes away sin. God did not withhold his own son but gave him up for us all. Taking our judgment, sin, and death, Christ died “instead of us.” Now by faith God has provided forgiveness and freedom, and a resurrection like Christ’s.

Having received such provision from God, let us live with sacrificial faith. Real faith sacrifices, because real faith trusts God to provide.