Beyond the Darkness Devotional | Encouragement in GriefSýnishorn

The Greatest Sacrifice

After years of praying for a child, Abraham finally had the son for which he’d always longed. Isaac, the child whose name meant “laughter,” brought so much joy to his father’s heart. From his first gurgles and coos, Isaac confirmed God’s promise to listen and act on his people’s behalf.

Then Abraham received another call to go where he was told. This one was so different, so dark, so heartbreaking. This time, God wasn’t asking Abraham to let go of his familiar surroundings, his group of friends, or his homeland. He was asking Abraham to lay his own heart on the altar, to give up the boy he loved best of all.

How could Abraham do this? Genesis 22 tells us that Abraham trusted God one small step at a time. He got up in the morning. He saddled his donkey. He cut wood. He walked along the road. He did the small things that needed to be done, trusting that the one who had led him thus far would lead him through this most challenging act of faith.

Just like Abraham, God has called you to a difficult task—to live and grow with grief. God has asked you to trust his mysterious wisdom and plan, to walk by faith and not by sight through the darkest valley of the shadow of death. How can you walk this hard road of obedience? The same way Abraham did—one small step at a time.

Today, as you grieve your loss, take it slow. Get out of bed. Dress for work. Unload the dishwasher. Take a shower. Whatever simple task you can complete, do it with the energy God gives. Each of these seemingly small tasks becomes an act of trust when offered to God. While you go about the mundane routines of your day, remember Abraham’s words: “God will provide a lamb.” God will honor your fragile obedience, your timid faith. He will give you all that you need. He will lead you in perfect love toward life, one small step at a time.