God does not tempt anyone –
He does test to prove faith in Him.

When He tests you, are you quick to respond as Abraham did?
(NASB) Genesis 22:1 “…God tested Abraham, and said to him, ‘Abraham!’   And he said, ‘Here I am.’”

Some background: Abraham had sent Ishmael and Hagar (Ishmael’s mother) away because God said so.  Abraham then had one son – his only son.  Abraham and Isaac is a “picture” of God.
Jesus Christ is God the Father’s only begotten Son.  Jesus was born of a virgin according to Scripture.  (Isaiah 7:14; Luke 1:26-35)

“Listen” to God’s instructions to Abraham…
(NASB) Genesis 22:2 “He said, ‘Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you.’”

Abraham loved Isaac.  God the Father loves His only begotten Son, Jesus.

God’s tests prove your love for Him…Him alone, above all else.  Who do you love more – yourself or God?  Do you love another or some thing more than the living God?

God’s love for you demands the perfect sacrifice of Jesus (who was without sin).  God did what His holiness demands – a perfect sacrifice for your sins.  And that perfect sacrifice is Jesus Christ.  He is the promised Messiah.

Abraham and Isaac were instructed to go to the land of Moriah – and on a specific mountain God designated.

 God designates the place I am to sacrifice –
I don’t choose it, He does!

The place of sacrifice is neither comfortable nor convenient – that is why sacrificial living is just that – sacrificial!

Jesus Christ went to that same mountain and was sacrificed outside the walls of Jerusalem on a cross – designated by God.

What is another lesson to be learned from God’s instructions?
Be willing to follow God’s instructions to live pleasing to Him – living sacrificially.

(NASB) Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.”  (Underlining added)

Re-read the above verse and for every “I” and “me” personalize with your own name.