God's Glory Church

“And Abraham called the name of that place: ‘The Lord will see’.” — Genesis 22:14

Judson Van DeVenter was born on a farm, where he learned to draw and studied art. Eventually, he became a drawing teacher. However, God had a completely different plan for him. Friends appreciated his work in the church and encouraged him to engage in evangelism. Judson also felt that God was calling him to this, but it was difficult for him to give up art. However, according to him, “finally the decisive hour of my life came, and I gave everything to Him.”

We cannot imagine the broken heart of Abraham when God called him to give up his son Isaac. Reading God’s command “bring… him as a burnt offering” (Gen. 22:2), we ask ourselves: “And what valuable thing does God call us to sacrifice?” We know that in the end God had mercy on Isaac (v. 12), but the point is clear: Abraham was willing to give up what was most valuable to him. He believed that God would help him in fulfilling the most difficult calling.

We say we love God, but are we willing to sacrifice the most precious thing? Judson Van DeVenter followed God’s call to evangelize and wrote the hymn “I want to give everything to You.” Later, God called Judson to teach, and one of his students became a young man named Billy Graham.

God’s plan for our lives has purposes beyond our imagination. He wants us to be ready to give the most precious thing. It seems like the least we can do. After all, He gave His Only Begotten Son for us.

What is God’s calling for you? What might you have to sacrifice for Him?

Dear God, it is difficult for me to surrender all areas of my life to You. Please help me to trust You.

Author: Kenneth Petersen