The pursuit of happiness is exalted in our culture. Prevailing wisdom encourages you to “follow your heart.” But according to Rom. 1:24-25, one of the worst things that can happen is for God to give someone over to the desires of their heart.

God tests the desires of Abraham’s heart by asking him to sacrifice Isaac, the child of promise. Even the good gift of family must not become a “counterfeit god” in our lives. As long as Abraham never had to choose between his son and obedience to God, he could not see that his love for Isaac could become idolatrous.