“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen,” Hebrews 11:1 ESV. Faith is fully revealed only when it has been authenticated by testing. Abraham’s faith faced the ultimate test when God asked him to sacrifice Isaac, his miracle son: “By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was in the act of offering up his only son,” Hebrews 11:17 ESV. Of course, God did not want to take away Isaac’s life. He wanted Abraham’s heart. He wanted Abraham to understand trust in God on a whole new level. God had clearly promised Abraham “many descendants,” and this promise could not be fulfilled unless Isaac lived. Abraham knew that God would not lie, so he rested in God’s promises even when God’s command did not make any sense. We all face these moments. LORD, grant me the grace to always obey.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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