Obeying God. Trustimg God.
The story of Abraham Isaac,Sarah,Hagar and Ischmael. Powerful. I see much of us in this story. How much is Abraham's human feelings are not written about for whatever reason in the scripture. But it's okay if we wonder what his thoughts could have been. In this XXII chapter of the Book of Genesis we see where he obediently took his son with all of his provisions to offer his son as a sacrifice to God. It's okay for me to cringe when I see this little boy Isaac ask his father about where is the offering. I have to say as strong as Abraham appeared to be in this story it is also searching that is very strong faith would waiver from time to time. It's okay people for us to say that because why in the world would God want us to know this. Well here it is, it's okay for us to wonder an look a little bit weak at times. Abraham in this particular case was quicker to offer Isaac up as a physical offering, yet back in the previous stories we see where he loved Hagar son Ishmael so much that it ate him up to run them from his home. I can see myself in that situation. I also can see Abrahams strengths and weaknesses. Obeying God sometimes requires us being willing to lose and give up something precious we have. I must say that at this moment this dreaded situation has found its way to my doorstep. Do I keep something I love dearly but is a total hindrance to the direction the Lord is leading me in my life.? Are you there in that type of situation.? It's a tough one. In Abraham's case in chapter 22 of Genesis he is being not tempted but tested by the Lord. So for a little insight into what it's like to be tested by God, we must see that it can be costly to offer yourself up to God for service. Friends and family can walk away from you. They can turn against you they can talk about you and that you are life and never think one time about the consequences to being a hindrance in God's way in someone else's will in their life. Most people Christians included, consider they do not wish to be involved. Well they shouldn't be busy bodies but they should be aware of your situation and be prayer partners. They should stand with you when evil stands against you. It's called loyalty. That's a strong word for some people and frankly most people are ignorant of how and when to use it. Some people do not belong in roles of leadership simply because they're not equipped to deal with some Christians who have very serious issues they take to heart. And more especially if these issues affect the local church. You simply must not act like the World acts or imitate and take sides with those who think as the world thinks. Let me just say it this way this section of my life at this moment has many new aspects in my walk with Christ. Yet some of the devil's old ploys have pop back up to take offense with me. Some people allow these types of situations to consume them. As for me I pray I stay patient I watch and I listen and then if action is needed I fear no man a stand up to this stuff. We must be careful to be fair and continue to love regardless of what has happened. I have learned recently but that is a practice that is pretended very often. I will not shrink down lay down or roll over like a trained puppy to follow just anybody. Why I have a God in heaven that says I can come boldly to his throne with my request. I must admit I do this quite often and many who may be reading this, your name and your situation is taken to heaven and God takes into consideration. He loves especially his elect. Will people I love you all. I will leave you with a verse in the Book of Romans chapter 1. The verse is 9. Quote for God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his son, that without ceasing I make mention I love you always in my prayers. This is true. God bless have a great week and I'll be writing again soon.