Daily Devotions

Has God asked you to make any sacrifices lately? If so, how did you respond?
God will never ask you to sacrifice anything without giving you a greater blessing in return. Of course, the moment He asks it of you, it may be difficult to remember that.
It certainly was for Abraham. When he and Sarah were well beyond child-bearing age, the Lord miraculously provided them with a son, Isaac. But then God commanded something very difficult, indeed – that Abraham offer his only son as a sacrifice (Genesis 22:1-10).
Abraham willingly complied, confident that the Lord would keep His promises to provide many descendants through Isaac. Though he didn’t know how God would do so, Abraham absolutely trusted He would – and the Lord spared Isaac. And because Abraham was faithful in obedience to God’s command, He blessed him beyond imagination.
Genesis 22:16-17 says, “And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the LORD, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son: That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies.”
Likewise, God the Father may ask you to give up something very precious or important – not to wound you, but to make sure your trust in Him remains firm. No matter how difficult it is, do it. He will bless you in amazing ways that will both surprise and delight you.
Prayer: “Lord, I won’t withhold anything from You. Fill me with faith and help me always to be obedient to Your commands, amen.”
Trust God with what’s dearest to you. You’ll be glad you did.