Scripture mentions the idea of seeking the Lord over eighty times. Over and over, we see the result of seeking the Lord is drawing our strength from His strength, growing closer to His spirit, healing, experiencing joy, and learning to recognize His voice and direction (1 Chronicles 16:11, James 4:8, 2 Chronicles 7:14, Matthew 13:44, Psalm 119:10).

But sometimes when we draw nigh to Him, our healing and joy come through trials. Sometimes His direction is not what we expect, desire, or want to hear. Yet, if we choose to follow despite our fear and confusion, we will be blessed.

In Genesis 22, Abraham is directed to sacrifice his own son, Isaac. Obviously, he does not love this idea. He does not jump at the chance to make this move. It breaks his heart. But he does it. And why does he? Because he CLEARLY hears the voice of the Lord. Because he knows how to recognize it. Because he is close to the Lord’s spirit. Because he believes the word of the Lord to be true.

Because he knows following the Lord’s direction, no matter how difficult or terrifying it may be, will always be the most rewarding action of them all. It will always lead to the right place. It will always work out for good (Romans 8:28).

Abraham says “yes.”

Abraham takes the leap of faith.

Abraham walks an unthinkable path.

Abraham prepares to make one of the greatest sacrifices one can fathom.

Not only does Abraham follow the Lord’s direction, but he does it with no hesitation. Scripture says, “Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey…” and he went to sacrifice his son.

He was fully committed to following God’s direction.

And that faith was rewarded with a miracle.

“Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided” (Genesis 22:13-14).

During your most terrifying leaps of faith, don’t forget, the Lord will provide.

“And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29:13‬ ‭