Now it came to pass after these things that God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” —
Genesis 22:1
The purpose of every test is two-fold: to confirm what you have learnt, and to serve as a stepping stone to your promotion. God is omniscient. He, therefore, knew that Abraham loved and obeyed him. He, however, went ahead to test him for confirmation. He instructed him to sacrifice his only son Isaac on a mountain He would show him. Abraham went ahead in obedience and did everything as he was instructed until God finally constrained him from sacrificing his son.Genesis 22:1
God’s reaction to Abraham passing the test is seen in verse 12, “And He said, ‘Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for NOW I KNOW that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.’ “ The words, “now I know”, do not mean that God was unaware. Abraham only confirmed what God always knew. A good teacher rejoices when their student passes a test. It confirms that they were taught well and makes the teacher proud. A teacher who gloats when a student fails a test is not a good one. God rewarded Abraham’s obedience by announcing generational blessings on him and his descendants.
James 1:2 urges us to “…count it all joy when you fall into various trials.” Your trials are only a doorway to your promotion. If you’re going through a season of trials, rejoice because your promotion will follow in due season. May you pass every test the Lord will permit you to go through. May it confirm your love for the Lord and establish your fear of Him.
Prayer:
Father, may every test I am going through today lead to my promotion tomorrow.Scripture Reading:
Genesis 22:1-14
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