Read Hebrews 11:17-19 + Genesis 22:1-14 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- According to Hebrews 11, on what basis did Abraham offer Isaac as a sacrifice?
- How quickly did Abraham obey God’s command, according to Genesis 22:3?
- What specific actions and words demonstrate Abraham’s trust in God?
Reflect
Within the “faith hall of fame” in Hebrews, we learn about Abraham – a man who was awakened with a promise in the midst of a dark world. Many years later, when that promise came true through his son Isaac, God asked Abraham to trust Him fully and sacrifice Isaac back to God. Abraham’s obedience revealed his deep faith. Even when it didn’t make sense, Abraham knew he could trust God’s character. He climbed the mountain, and God proved faithful, providing a ram in Isaac’s place.
God calls all of us to respond in faith too. He wants us to know and trust His character, and then based on that foundation, to step out and trust Him with our first and best. God comes alive to those who walk by faith. When we play it safe, there’s no opportunity for Him to flex.
So the question is: Are you playing it safe? Are you holding onto an “Isaac” in your life, clinging to it with a closed fist, unwilling to step out into the unknown? Your sacrifice may look different than Abraham’s, but by definition, sacrifice means releasing something valuable. Maybe today is your day to believe God for the impossible, to let go of whatever you’re holding onto and trust the promises of God. He is always faithful to provide.
Respond
- What is the one thing in your life that if asked to sacrifice it for the kingdom of God, you’re not sure if you could? How does Abraham’s story inspire you or challenge you?
- A huge aspect of Abraham’s faith was knowing and trusting God’s character. In your own life, what do you know that is true about God and His character? How has He been faithful in the past? How does that change your ability to trust Him in this current season?
- Where in your life is God calling you to release control and trust Him fully? What will it require of you to do that?
As you process these questions, use page 59 of your Awaken Guidebook to jot down any key reflections or next steps. Be sure to bring your guidebook to your group! Page 60 is a great place to write down things that you want to process together.