Many of us grew up singing along to the song "Father Abraham" in Sunday school. In that song, if you remember, it says: "... many sons had Father Abraham. I am one of them and so are you..." Romans 4:16 confirms this by calling Abraham the father of all who believe. God had made Abraham a promise that he would be a father of many nations, that he would be very fruitful, and that kings would come from him (Gen. 17:4-6). Not only did Jesus, the King of kings come from Abraham's descendants, but we have also come into this great family through Jesus Christ who gave us the privilege of being called sons and daughters of God. Even though Abraham may not have lived to see the completion of this great promise, he knew that if God said it, then it would be done!

This is the great faith that he modeled for his son, Isaac. Abraham had waited so long for the birth of his son, and when it finally happened, I can only imagine the great joy Abraham felt being a dad! Then one day, God asked the unimaginable from him... go and sacrifice your son as a burnt offering. What?! He must have been heartbroken. Although Abraham didn't know God's plan, he obeyed. On their way to Moriah, when Isaac would ask what they were going to sacrifice, his father would say that God would provide. When they finally reached the place God indicated, and Abraham told Isaac that he was the sacrifice, Isaac imitated the same obedience and trust that he had seen in his father's relationship with the Lord. Isaac witnessed firsthand God's provision when we trust in Him. What an amazing legacy Abraham left for his son, and for all of us!

What legacy would you like to leave for your children? Will it be a legacy of faith, trust, love, and obedience to God? Today is the day to start modeling the godly character that we would like to see develop in our children, grandchildren, and beyond!

Suggested prayer: Dear God, my desire is for my children to grow strong in faith and be obedient to your will for their lives. Please help me be a role model like Abraham for my children. Even when we can't see the entirety of your plan, please help me trust and obey without a doubt. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus' name, amen.

1.    Genesis 22:2 (NLT).

Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B.