The Plowman

Introduction:
It has been suggested that living the Christian life is not difficult – it’s down right impossible! I’m inclined to agree with that. There is that sense in which we find ourselves in certain circumstances and we say, “I just don’t know how anyone makes it without the Lord.” There are those times of intense struggle in which the power and grace of God are so overwhelmingly present that we cannot help but sing his praises. There are those other times when we struggle with his commands and instructions and wonder how he could demand such a thing. What’s with this “turn the other cheek” business? “Love those that hate you” and “pray for those who persecute you?” What’s up with that? You can level with me – it’s just us – don’t you sometimes struggle with some of God’s commands? And yet we are to walk in humble obedience before him. How do we do that? How do we develop that ability? We can get some help from our old friend Abraham.

Text: Genesis 22:1-19

Thesis: Unconditional trust in God enables obedience at any price.

In this passage with just a few able strokes the inspired narrator paints a beautiful portrait of unconditional trust. There are three things I want us to note about such a trust. This is what each of us is called to.

1. Unconditional trust responds in determined obedience. (22:1-3)
2. Unconditional trust overcomes any obstacle. (22:4-12)
3. Unconditional trust brings the blessing of God. (22:13-18)