Resistance and Reward

After defeating the four kings of the east, Abram was no doubt afraid that they would return to make mincemeat out of him. But God spoke to him in a vision, saying:

“Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.” (Genesis 15:1, NKJV)

Knowing that God was his shield (protection) and reward (portion) would drive out Abram's fear.

But Abram was still troubled because the one thing he wanted he did not have--a child. To whom would he pass on his inheritance? So God promised Abram that one from his own body would be his heir. Then He told Abram to look up to heaven and count the stars if he was able to number them. So would his descendants be (as innumerable as the stars).

And he believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness. (Genesis 15:6, NKJV)

This forms the doctrine of justification by faith. God justified Abram not because of what he did but because of what he believed. This places righteousness within the grasp of anyone who will simply believe in Jesus Christ.

What has God promised that is especially meaningful to you today. Do you believe Him?