Scripture Reading: Genesis 22:9-10
And they came to the place which God had told him of, and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac, his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood. And Abraham stretched forth his hand and took the knife to slay his son

Reflections: The birth of Isaac was such a great joy to Abraham. All he ever needed had been provided. Isaac was sure to occupy his prior attention and love. Abraham was, however, put to the test by God. God asked him to offer up the child as a burnt offering. Without grudging, he made the journey to the location for the sacrifice, bound up Isaac, placed him on the altar and got ready to kill him until God stopped him. Though a critical necessity of his life, Abraham gave the child up to keep his relationship with God. He demonstrated that nothing could take the place of God in his life. His action of giving God the first place in his life was acknowledged and richly rewarded by God. Like Abraham, learn to give God the first place in your life no matter what.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me always to give you the first place in my life.

Confession: I give God the first place in my life.