I.—God’s friendship does not exclude trial.
The man who is called the friend of God was told to slay his son.
II.—Great joys contain great sorrows.
The name of this son was Laughter. The more we enjoy a Gift of God, the more we shall feel it when we are called to part. Hold joys with a slack hand.
III.—In great extremities look for great deliverances.
The ram is in the thicket all the time.
IV.—Great trials will yield sweet memories.
None of Abraham’s journeys cost him so many tears as this, and none were so pleasant to recall.
Perhaps Calvary is the sweetest spot on earth to God.