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The next illustrious instance of the efficacy of faith we have here in the person of Abraham, who obeyed the call and command of God in leaving his own native country, to go he knew not whither, and to receive an inheritance he knew not when.
Where note, 1. The foundation of Abraham's faith and obedience, and that was the call of God; he had an immediate command to go out of his own country into a certain place, with a promise to receive it for an inheritance: Get thee from thy country, relations, friends, and all outward enjoyments, is a command becoming the greatness of God to give; and self-denial in fact or resolution to comply with such a command from the great God, is the foundation of all sincere profession.
Note, 2. What was the principle of Abraham's obedience in complying with this call of God, and that was his faith: By faith, Abraham, when he was called, obeyed. True faith, wherever it is, bringeth forth sincere obedience; these two can no more be separated then the light and the sun, than the fire and heat; obedience is the daughter of faith, and faith the parent and principle of obedience.
Note, 3. The difficulty, and therein the excellency, of his obedience; He obeyed, and went out, not knowing whither he went. If faith be once satisfied in the call and command of God, it will follow him when he cannot see a step of its way; over hills and mountains, through dales and vallies, fearing nothing. He that has God's call, need not fear God's conduct.