10.27.2024 | Abraham and Isaac
Genesis 22:1-19
Do you have a favorite toy or stuffed animal that you would never want to give away? Parents, do you have a favorite item—cellphone, a piece of jewelry, photos—that you would never want to lose or be without? What if God asked you to give up that special item and never play with or use it again? We can all thank God for giving us the things that we love, but I imagine we would be upset if He asked us to give up something so valuable or special.
That’s why the trust and obedience of Abraham are even more remarkable. When God tested Abraham’s love, Abraham was faithful to do what God said—even the unthinkable assignment of sacrificing his son. Even in such a hard moment, Abraham trusted and obeyed God.
Abraham led Isaac up the mountain toward the place where the sacrifice would be made. As Abraham prepared to do what God had asked Him to do, he was suddenly stopped by the angel of the Lord and saw that God had provided a ram to sacrifice instead of his son, Isaac.
Abraham’s obedience showed how much he loved God, but God shows us an even greater love by sending His Son to die for us. Like the ram that God provided to save Isaac’s life, God provided Jesus to save sinners like us. God sent His only Son to be our substitute and die in our place. When we believe in Jesus and what He has done for us, we receive forgiveness and eternal life through Him.
Abraham was willing to give his only son for God, but God provided another way. God was willing to give His only Son for us. Jesus knew there was no other way to save God’s people, so He died and rose again to provide them with forgiveness and life with God forever.
Memory Verse & Question
Family Prayer Time
Mornings
Ask God to help you obey Him and those He has put in charge. How does God’s love motivate me to obey? How does obedience show my love for God and others?
Evenings
Pray for help and wisdom to know how God is calling you to share Jesus with others. Who is God leading me to share Jesus with this week? Am I willing to say “yes” when God calls?
Family Activities
For Fun
Take your family on a hike. As you hike, take the time to talk about the story of Abraham and Isaac. Ask children to describe what they would’ve been feeling if they were Abraham or Isaac. How did Abraham trust God in such a hard situation? Take a moment to give thanks for Jesus’ sacrifice and His willingness to die in your place.
To Serve
Make a list of people who need to hear about Jesus. Talk about when and how you can share the message of Jesus with them Even though it may be awkward or scary, plan at least one way you can share the gospel this week with a person on the list. “The Gospel: God’s Plan for Me” is a great tool to help you talk through the gospel in those conversations.
