Do Not Be Afraid, Abram
Today’s Text: Genesis 15:1, 6
FOUNDATION

The Bible is the FOUNDATION for life.

After defeating the coalition of Mesopotamian kings to liberate his nephew Lot, God spoke to Abram:

GENESIS 15:1, 6
“After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying,

‘Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.’

And he [Abram] believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness.”

Following the spectacular rescue of Lot, God appeared to Abram for the fifth time. God’s first words to Abram were, “fear not.” As is usually the case when this phrase is used in Scripture, the one receiving God’s assurance has much to fear.

Abram no doubt assumed that his defeat of the Mesopotamian kings would make him a target for retaliation. What if this vicious band of marauding raiders regrouped? Strengthened their forces? Attacked him unexpectedly?

God assured Abram, “I am your shield.” The word translated “shield” is used metaphorically throughout the Hebrew Scriptures to portray God’s protection for His people.

God promised Abram the ultimate protection—Himself. Not only did God promise to be Abram’s protection, but also his reward.

As he made his way home following the rescue of Lot, Abram declined the rightful spoils of victory and refused to be obligated to the king of Sodom. God confirmed that Abram’s act of faith in refusing the spoils was the right choice.

Abram not only had a reward, but an exceedingly great reward that was as certain as God Himself. Although still unrealized at the time, Abram believed God’s promise. He lived his faith in daily experience. In response, God credited Abram’s faith as an act of righteousness.

Charles E. McCracken is an international Bible teacher, long-time friend of Israel and advocate for the Jewish people. Rev. McCracken authentically communicates biblical truth making his presentations relevant for those seeking to understand the significance of Israel and the church in Bible prophecy. He staunchly supports the nation of Israel and the Jewish people’s right to exist and live in peace.

© Charles E. McCracken 2016, devotional comments only. Repost/Reprint with permission from the author. Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. (Emphasis added).

IMAGES:
1) Bible opened to Isaiah. By, Ken Horn, [CC BY 2.0] via Wikimedia Commons – Enhancement: MKM Portfolios
2) Israel from space; nighttime view. By NASA Earth Observatory [PD-Hubble], via Wikimedia Commons – Enhancement: MKM Portfolios

 ♦