Obedience Over Comfort
Scripture:
Genesis 22:1–3
After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he answered. “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go…offer him there as a burnt offering...”
So Abraham got up early in the morning, saddled his donkey… and set out…
Devotional:
Imagine Abraham’s heart when God asked him to sacrifice his beloved son—the promised child, the one for whom he’d waited decades. The command seemed irrational, even cruel. Yet Abraham’s obedience was immediate. He rose early and did exactly as God asked, even though it cost him deeply.
It’s easy to obey God when His instructions align with our desires or comfort. But the true test of obedience occurs when God asks us to do something uncomfortable, challenging, or seemingly impossible. Our willingness to obey, especially in difficult circumstances, reveals our true faith and devotion to God.
God’s tests are never intended to harm us—they’re meant to strengthen our trust and deepen our relationship with Him. Abraham’s story isn’t merely about a difficult command; it’s about faith that trusts God even when it hurts.
Questions for Reflection:
- Has God ever asked you to do something uncomfortable or difficult? How did you respond?
- What might God be asking you to surrender or obey Him in today?
Prayer:
Lord, give me a heart like Abraham's—quick to obey, even when obedience is painful or inconvenient. Help me trust Your commands, believing Your plans are always good, even when I don’t fully understand them. Guide me toward obedience today, no matter what it costs. In Jesus' name, amen.
Daily Application:
Identify one area where you’re resisting obedience because of discomfort. Take a concrete step today toward obeying God in this specific area—whether it’s forgiving someone, making a difficult decision, or surrendering control.