(Genesis 22:2)
God's command is, "Take now," not later. It is incredible how we try to debate God! Have you ever had that time when you know something is right, but you try to find excuses for not doing it immediately? If you are to climb to the height God intends, it can never be done later - it must be done now. And the sacrifice must be worked through our will before we actally perform it.
"So Abraham rose early in the morning... and went to the place of which God had told him." (22:3) Man, Abraham's simplicity is amazing! When God spoke, he did not "converse with flesh and blood" (Gal 1:6). Be careful when you want to "converse with flesh and blood" or even your own thoughts, insights, or understandings - anything that is not based on your personal relationship with God. These are all things that compete with and hinder obedience to God.
Abraham did not choose what the sacrifice would be. Always guard yourself against self-chosen service for God. Self-sacrifice may be a disease that messes up your service. If God has made your cup sweet, drink it with grace; or even if He has made it bitter, drink it still. If the will of God means a hard and difficult time for you, go through it. But never decide the place of your own martyrdom, as if to say, "I will only go there, but no farther." God chose the test for Abraham, and Abraham neither delayed nor protested, but steadily obeyed. If you are not living in touch with God, it is easy to blame Him or pass judgment on Him. You must go through the trial, because by going through it you learn to know God better. God is working in you to reach His highest goals until His purpose and your purpose become one.
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