“After these things the word of Adonai came to Abram in a vision saying, “Do not fear, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.””
Genesis 15:1 TLV
Abraham is one of my favorite people in the Bible. I can imagine what it must have been like to take his family, leave the only home he’d ever known, and start out with no clear destination in mind. We’ve done that – following G-d through 12 moves in 22 years of marriage.
Then, Abraham told a BIG lie about Sarai being his sister because he was afraid. Pharaoh took her into his home, the G-d sent a plague to Pharaoh and his home. He kicked out Sarai and confronted Abraham in his lie. Fear led Abraham to make some dumb decisions and I get it! I’ve done some dumb things because I was afraid.
He then inherited Canaan, separated from his nephew, later took 318 mighty men he had trained in his home to rescue Lot, and refused a reward in order to maintain his integrity.
Then – after all of these things – stepping out in faith, being afraid, lying, and attacking a people to rescue his family, – G-d appeared in a vision and told him: do not fear.
I’ve read that the phrase “do not fear” appears in scripture 365 times and if my research is correct, this is the first time.
G-d spoke to our hearts to do something crazy – like move with no clear destination? Sure. Why not. Don’t be afraid.
I sinned because I was afraid and was caught? Sure. Often. Repent. Then do not fear.
In the original Hebrew, the word for “shield” indicates a covering like the scales of a crocodile(H4043) and the word for “reward” means restitution, wages, or provision (H7939).
Essentially G-d is saying: don’t worry – stop being so terrified – I have your back and will provide all that you need in the place I lead you to.
Whatever we are facing, may we be reminded that He is for us, not against us, that His way and plan is perfect, that He is good, His leadership is perfect, and He can be trusted.
Adonai – forgive me for where I’ve disobeyed you. Forgive me for lying and deceiving others out of fear. I’m afraid now. Deliver me from a spirit of fear and help me to trust You. Amen.