God sometimes unexpectedly tests and strengthens our faith by gently requiring significant sacrifice.
1. God Tests Abraham (1-2)
Sometimes God tests our faith by asking us to surrender what we treasure most.
1 Corinthians 10.13
Matthew 16.24
Is there a difference between discipline and testing?
Is there a difference between discipline and sacrifice?
Is there a difference between discipline and punishment?
Why did God test Abraham?
Why did God test Abraham after a period of success?
Does significant sacrifice help or hinder trusting God? Why?
Is there a difference between being a steward/manager and an owner? If so, how does this apply to God and you?
2. Abraham Responds to God (3-10)
One way to increase faith is to exercise faith.
Romans 4.20-21
Hebrews 11.17-19
Romans 8.32
Isaiah 53.10-11
Is God a hypocrite? Does he ever ask us to do something that he would not do/has not done?
Can "full-on faith" co-exist with difficulty, depression, disorientation and distress?
Do we have to feel faith in order to have it?
Can we grow our "faith muscle" in spite of pain? Without pain?
3. God's Responds to Abraham (11-19)
The Lord sees our need and provides just what we need… just when we need it.
Does God really care?
Does God really control the minute details of life?
If God is omnipotent and omniscient, why does he care if we work? Why does he reward our works?
