Genesis 22:14

The story of Abraham preparing to sacrifice his son is understandably one of the most challenging events to understand in the Bible. But when rightly understood, it is one of the most beautiful stories foreshadowing God's loving sacrifice for us. It's important to keep in mind that God was in control of the situation the entire time, and He knew that Isaac would remain safe. God was using a "test" for Abraham that he would have understood culturally at that time -- to give up your son for the God you serve was the ultimate act of obedience. To be clear, God NEVER desires or requires us to make that sacrifice. But ultimately what this moment showed is a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice that was to come. God does not require us to give up our son, but He was willing to give up His for our sake. God Himself, in the incarnation of Jesus, is the ultimate provision.

PASSAGE: Genesis 22:14 - "So Abraham called the name of that place, “The Lord will provide”; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.”

PAUSE: Abraham and Isaac's encounter on Mount Moriah foreshadowed the Messiah's death on Calvary. May we never forget the Bible stories that ultimately point us to Jesus and the provision that he provided on the cross. At just the right time in history, Christ died on the cross for our sins and provided salvation to all who place their faith in him as their personal Savior. 

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus, who provides a way to you and the forgiveness of sins. Allow me to see that you also want to provide for my daily needs. Thank you for all you do.