«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: l).
WHAT ARE «THESE THINGS» that today’s verse does not mention? Those that are recounted in chapter 14 of Genesis. Five kings, including those of Sodom and Gomorrah, tried to rebel against the yoke that Chedorlaomer had imposed on them. These five kings faced in the valley of Siddim the alliance led by Chedorlaomer, but were defeated so completely that, according to Scripture, Chedorlaomer, along with three other kings who supported him, «took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all their provisions, and went their way» (Genesis 14:11).
Do you remember who was taken captive on that occasion? «They also took Lot, Abrams brothers’ son who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed» (v. 12). When Abram learned of what had happened, he armed his three hundred and eighteen servants and, thanks to a surprise night attack, «he brought back all the goods, and also brought back his brother Lot and his goods, as well as the women and the people» (v. 16).
It is now easy to understand the why of the Lord’s message to Abram that today’s verse refers to. Abram had good reason to be concerned: What if any of the nations he defeated decided to take revenge against his family? «With horror,» says Patriarchs and Prophets, «he recalled the scene of carnage he had witnessed. But the nations whose forces he had defeated would doubtless renew the invasion of Canaan, and make him the special object of their vengeance. Becoming thus involved in national quarrels, the peaceful quiet of his life would be broken.»—ch. 12, p. 136.
Then becomes clear the quality that makes our God a true heavenly Father. First, He had given Abram victory in facing a better-trained army for war. Then, when he is assaulted by the horrors, in vision He communicates to His son a message of safety: «Do not be afraid,» He says, «I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.
God had been his shield in battle and would remain so. No one could touch him without His permission. In addition, He would also be his reward.
What could be lacking as long as the Owner of all the wealth was by his side?
«I am your shield and your reward.» Can there be a more encouraging message at the beginning of a new day? God wants to remind you that He knows all your fears and also your needs. That is why He says, «Do not be afraid. When you face your battles, I will be with you. And when you have need—for food, strength, encouragement, protection—trust that you will receive ample provision because I am your heavenly Father. »
Thank You, heavenly Father for being my shield and my reward.
Please walk with me throughout this new day. I know that I have nothing to fear as long as You are by my side.
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Taken from: Devotional Readings for Adults 2022
“GREAT IS OUR GOD!”
From: FERNANDO ZABALA
Collaborators: Xiomara Perdomo & Angelica Cuate
