Perception
Genesis 22, Abraham and Isaac are on the mountain. Here in the narrative, woven in this story: love, worship and obey are first used in scripture. The law of first mention often sets the tone for all other uses.
I noticed today that the word used for “fear” (22:12) God stopping Abe mid-air when he was fully obeying and ready to sacrifice Isaac, responds saying, “I know that you fear God, and have not withheld your son from Me, your only son.” This is the first time fear (yare) is used as an adjective (other uses are verbs). Why spotlight this? I am challenged! Here’s why. In Abe’s story, it wasn’t so much that he feared (although KEY to note) but that “he” feared. The emphasis is on the one doing, describing Abe’s perception of his God (in the moment, moral reverence). Reverence is fear mingled with respect and utmost awe. May we be aware of our “utmost” usage!
Perception.
Perception can often be interchangeable with discernment. See and understand with a weighing process. Wisely distinguishing value and worth and responding accordingly. Perception profoundly shapes our thoughts, feelings, and behavior, influencing how we interact with others—with God. How we react in circumstances and the decisions we make. Abraham valued his God, and his behavior tethered alongside.
Our perception of God dictates our obedience.
A.W. Tozer wrote, “What first comes to mind when you think about God is the most important thing about you.” [Knowledge of the Holy]. Abraham revered God; it was evident. God met him in the moment. “YOU, Abe, I know you fear Me” (paraphrased).
Like Abraham, what and how does our behavior display our perception of God? If we could hear God audibly in the moment, what would God’s response be to us? (OH! That is so challenging!)
Perception.
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Inspired Fountain 