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These are a few of our SOAP notes from today’s reading. We encourage you to read and journal on your own first, then join us in conversation about what God revealed to YOU today. Click HERE to go directly to the daily reading if you wish.
Isaac decided to build an altar | Nikki Metzger
S~ Isaac built an altar there and called on the name of the Lord. Genesis 26:25a (NIV)
O~ I think this is Isaac’s first written account of building an altar to the Lord and calling out to Him. Isaac is past 60 years old. Until now, Isaac has seemed to be a receiver of his father’s faith. The Lord has blessed Isaac up to this point in his life and there is even a communicating relationship between the Lord and Isaac. But here is where I see Isaac move into deeper, whole hearted worship, personal relationship with the Lord.
A~ I wanted to read this part of Genesis from Isaac’s point of view. To be a very beloved, maybe spoiled?, highly revered son of a faith filled man named Abraham. I wonder when Isaac was young what it was like. Was he spoiled? Was he kind? Was he humble? How did Sarah parent him after waiting all those years for him? What did Abraham teach him about the Lord? And then to be placed on the altar as the sacrifice, after his dad tied him up and told him what was happening. That moment revealed what was number one in Abraham’s heart – the Lord. But as a kid, what did that event do to Isaac’s heart? I was wondering if he would ever embrace the Lord as his own after that. Would Isaac ever fully trust God after God asked his dad to sacrifice him?
I think this verse tells me yes! Isaac did embrace the Lord as his very own, evident by building an altar and calling on Him. This brings me much peace.
P ~ Father, thank You for revealing Isaac’s heart in the Word! I find such peace and hope and confidence in this account.
Freedom! | Kim Chipman
S~ To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 (NIV)
O~ The 2nd part of this verse is highly quoted…the truth will set you free. The thing is that it isn’t merely the EXISTENCE of the truth that sets us free, we have to KNOW the truth. Which comes from (if…then) holding to Jesus’ teaching.
A~ So, how do I hold to Your teaching? Because I want to be free, oh yes I do. Our sermon at church last Sunday was awesome (you can watch HERE if you like!) and our pastor listed 3 catalysts to change:
- The Word Of God – I need to be in Your Word to even know what Your teachings are! I need Your Word DAILY. Because I forget.
- The Spirit of God – You live within me! John 16:13 I have continual access (if I choose it)
- The People of God – I need to surround myself with people who sharpen me and encourage me to grow towards You.
All of these things help me stay focused to hold to Your teaching and truly live as a disciple.
P~ Lord, help me to be disciplined to not only read Your Word but to keep it in my thoughts. Guide me into all truth. I love You!
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