«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’” (Genesis 15:1).
It was a man who first said «I am afraid,» and it was also a man to whom God first said «Do not be afraid.» «In a vision of the night the divine Voice was again heard. ‘Fear not, Abram,’ were the words of the Prince of princes; ‘I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.’ But his mind was so oppressed by forebodings that he could not now grasp the promise with unquestioning confidence as heretofore.»—Patriarchs and Prophets, ch. 12, p. 136.
Why was Abram afraid? He had just returned from the victorious rescue of his nephew Lot; he had given his tithe to Melchizedek; he had refused to accept the reward offered by the king of Sodom, a reward which he had rightfully earned. He had done everything right, so why was he afraid? Reviewing the context of the verse, we can understand his fears. He was a married man, without any children. He had travelled to a foreign country, and he was afraid he would not inherit the land where he was settling. He was afraid that the kings he had conquered in battle might come back to seek revenge.
Not all fears come from disobedience. «The following fears might sound familiar to you: Are you afraid you might not have children? Are you afraid of not achieving your dreams? Are you afraid of living in a ‘foreign country? Are you afraid someone will take revenge on you? Are you afraid of getting COVID-19?
«It is not the will of God that His people should be weighed down with care. But our Lord does not deceive us. He does not say to us, ‘Do not fear; there are no dangers in your path.’ He knows there are trials and dangers, and He deals with us plainly. He does not propose to take His people out of a world of sin and evil, but He points them to a never-failing refuge.»—Steps to Christ, ch. 13, p. 122.
The two reasons that God gave Abraham to not be afraid are promises that allow us to face each day with courage. God says to you: «I am the one who protects you;» this is His promise of protection. And «I am your exceedingly great reward;» this is His promise to reward your obedience. Whatever difficult situation you may face today, remember that God will protect you, and God will reward you. Walk with your head held high, and trust in these two promises.
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Taken from: Devotional Thoughts for Women 2023
“DAUGHTER OF MINE” Do Not Be Afraid
From: Arsenia Fernandez-Uckele
Collaborators: Xiomara Perdomo & Angelica Cuate
