Give up my what?

“This is what the Lord says: Because you have obeyed me and not withheld even your beloved son . . . I will bless you richly.” Genesis 22:16, 17 NLT

Following God’s instructions, Abraham took his beloved son, Isaac, up the mountain, prepared an altar of wood ready for a sacrifice and tied Isaac on top of it. Disturbing? Yes! Confusing? Definitely! God had made several promises to Abraham that necessitated Isaac reaching adulthood and fathering sons. How could Abraham go through with this? He could, because he trusted God and knew that somehow Isaac would not be lost to him. “We will come right back,” he told his servants. In the end, Abraham obeyed, a ram was sacrificed not Isaac, and God blessed him for his obedience.

A compelling story, is it not? I take a deep breath and slowly exhale as I consider the ramifications. Could I? Would I give up my “beloveds” if God asked, or even demanded it? Easily, I could give up my home, most of my belongings, and my car. Grudgingly, I could give up my camera, my wedding rings, and my computer. I could even give up my dreams, hopes, and aspirations if I was clear on God’s expectations. But, could I give up my children? Well, when they were young I used to say to God, “Don’t ask me to be separated from my kids.” So, no, I would not have given up my kids. Now that they are grown, it is much easier to say, “Yes, God, I will obey.” Could I give up my husband? Well, I do not want to think about that.

Jesus desires ALL of our affection, interest, and loyalty. “If you want to be my follower you must love me more than your own father, mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters – yes, more than your own life” Luke 14:26. A tough choice, but the blessings that follow our acts of obedience are immeasurable and eternal.

What are your “beloveds”? Are you prepared to sacrifice them if God asked?

Lord, I pray that we hold our “beloveds” with an open hand. May we joyfully release that which hinders us from obediently following you. Thank you for your Spirit in us who enables us to do what is humanly difficult.