One of my favorite Old Testament characters is Abraham.  In the New Testament book of James, he writes, “And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,’ and he was called God’s friend” (James 2:23). As I read the story in Genesis 12 about how Abraham left everything he had including his extended family and set out for a place he wasn’t even sure existed, I was struck with awe at his obedient faith.  The Scripture tells us that God appeared to Abraham and the conversation was:  “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you….so Abraham left, as the Lord had told him” (Genesis 12:1).

As I was re-reading this passage the other day, I noticed that there was no mention of Abraham’s belief anywhere.  In the church today, we make so much of belief.  In fact, we will even argue our beliefs and declare they are more important than any other matter.  This did not seem to be the case with the man who was called “God’s Friend.”  What I do notice from this story is that God said “Go,” and Abraham “…left, as the Lord had told him” (Genesis 12:4). Obedience not belief is the action word here in this passage.

My point is, as a Christian, where do you place the most emphasis —belief or obedience?  The Bible tells me that God honors obedience to Him over any other attribute a Christian may have.  The reason is I can say “I believe” all day long, but until I take action on my belief I have done nothing.  That must be why God said “obedience is better than sacrifice.” When we obey we truly have beliefs.

I desire to have the relationship with God that Abraham enjoyed.  To have that relationship, I must give God the right to command me; and I must have the courage to obey.  God wants all of us to act upon what He says by giving movement to our beliefs.