The Father of our Faith - Part 3
Faith of Abraham - Sacrifice of Isaac
Ron Thomas

Let’s talk about Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22. This is one of those stories that really makes you stop and think. God tells Abraham to take his son Isaac—the child of promise—and offer him as a burnt offering. It’s a shocking command, but Abraham loves Isaac with everything in him. He’s waited decades for this son. This is his heart, his future, his everything. And yet, he trusts God.

Isaac isn’t a little kid. The text calls him a “young man” (Genesis 22:5), probably strong enough to carry the wood himself. And what’s amazing is that they walk together in this, trusting God together. Abraham knows the voice of God—he’s not losing it or hearing voices. He’s walked with God before; he knows this is God speaking.

Abraham’s response?

He believes God will act justly. Abraham knows God is good, fair, and trustworthy, even when life doesn’t make sense. Earlier, he had asked God,

He believes God will intervene. When Isaac asks about the lamb, Abraham says, “God will provide himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son” (Genesis 22:8). He even believed God could raise Isaac from the dead if necessary (Hebrews 11:17–19).

He believes God will keep His covenant. Isaac is the son of promise, through whom God will bless all nations: “In your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed” (Genesis 22:18).

Jesus later confirms, “Abraham rejoiced to see my day; he saw it and was glad” (John 8:56). Abraham doesn’t see the whole picture, but he sees enough to step forward in faith.

We won’t always see the plan. But like Abraham, we can trust God—trust that He is just, that He will act, and that He keeps His promises. Step forward. Trust Him. Do what He tells you to do. And watch Him work His plan through your life and beyond.