By Kenny Bruce
Pastor emeritus, Leawood East Baptist Church, Cordova
Focal Passage: Genesis 15:1-6, 13-16
Abram is dealing with fear, doubt, confusion and uncertainty. God brings him confidence, security and peace with His promises.
I. GOD’S PROMISES PROVIDE A FOUNDATION IN THE FACE OF FEAR (Genesis 15:1-5) In the previous chapter, Lot was captured by four invading armies from distant lands, and Abram led 318 of his men to rescue him. In chapter 15, Abram was likely afraid the kings of those armies would retaliate by launching a raid against him. God said to him, “Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great” (v. 1). As our shield, God protects us from our enemies. Every Spirit-filled Christian will have enemies, particularly Satan.
Bertha Smith was a missionary to China. She was in a mission compound when machine gun bullets from the communists shot out the windows, and she ducked for cover. She said later in her testimony about the episode, “To get to me, a person has to go through God.” God also promised Abram to reward him greatly. The greatest reward was His presence, which is also our greatest reward. [Read more…]