True Obedience Means Following Abraham's Example, Not Just Claiming His Blessings

In today's world, it's easy to get caught up in the allure of blessings. Many people desire the prosperity, protection, and promises that come from being in God's favor. However, true obedience to God isn't about merely claiming these blessings. Instead, it's about embodying the faith and commitment exemplified by Abraham. Abraham's life is a powerful testimony of what it means to walk in obedience to God. His journey wasn't just about receiving blessings; it was about living a life that reflected unwavering trust and submission to God's will.

The Foundation of Abraham's Obedience

Abraham, originally named Abram, is often referred to as the "father of faith." His life was marked by a series of significant events that showcased his deep obedience to God. One of the most notable moments was when God called him to leave his homeland and go to a place that He would show him. Genesis 12:1-4 recounts this pivotal moment:

"The Lord had said to Abram, 'Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.' So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Haran."

Abraham's obedience was immediate and complete. He didn't question God or hesitate. He packed up his life and followed God's direction without knowing the exact destination. This act of faith laid the foundation for the many blessings that would follow, but it was the obedience that God truly valued.

The Test of Sacrifice

Another profound example of Abraham's obedience is found in Genesis 22, where God tests Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac. This command was incredibly difficult, yet Abraham's response was one of unwavering trust in God. Genesis 22:2-3 details the command and Abraham's immediate action:

"Then God said, 'Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.' Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about."

Abraham's willingness to obey God, even in such an extreme situation, demonstrated his profound faith and trust. This act of obedience was not about the blessing of having a son, but about trusting God's plan and being willing to surrender everything to Him.

Blessings as a Result of Obedience

The blessings that Abraham received were indeed abundant. God promised him numerous descendants, land, and that through him all nations would be blessed. However, these blessings were a result of Abraham's obedience and faith. They were not the primary focus; the focus was on his relationship with God and his willingness to follow God's commands no matter the cost.

In Genesis 22:15-18, after the test with Isaac, God reaffirms His promises to Abraham:

"The angel of the Lord called to Abraham from heaven a second time and said, 'I swear by myself, declares the Lord, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me.'"

This passage underscores that the blessings were a direct result of Abraham's obedience. It was his faithfulness and trust in God that unlocked the promises.

Modern Application of Abraham's Obedience

For believers today, the lesson from Abraham's life is clear: true obedience means following God's will wholeheartedly, not just seeking His blessings. It requires a deep relationship with God, built on trust and submission. Many people focus on the rewards of faith, but Abraham's story teaches that the rewards are secondary. The primary goal should be to live a life that is pleasing to God, characterized by obedience and faith.

Obedience Over Blessings

In practical terms, this means prioritizing God's will in every aspect of life. It involves seeking God's guidance in decisions, being willing to make sacrifices for His sake, and trusting His plan even when it doesn't make sense. It's about walking in faith daily, just as Abraham did.

In James 2:21-23, Abraham's obedience is highlighted as an example of living faith:

"Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. And the scripture was fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,' and he was called God's friend."

This passage emphasizes that Abraham's faith was demonstrated through his actions. His obedience was the evidence of his faith, and it was this combination that made him righteous before God.

Conclusion: Embracing True Obedience

To truly follow Abraham's example, believers must shift their focus from merely claiming God's blessings to living lives of genuine obedience. This means being willing to step out in faith, make sacrifices, and trust God's plan even when it's challenging. The blessings will come, but they should not be the driving force. The true reward is a deep, abiding relationship with God Almighty, characterized by faith and obedience.

In summary, the life of Abraham teaches that true obedience is about following God's will with unwavering faith. It's not just about seeking blessings, but about living a life that reflects complete trust and submission to God. By embracing this kind of obedience, believers can experience the fullness of God's promises and walk in a relationship with Him that is rich and rewarding.