January 6th Devotion

Genesis 15:1 (NIV) After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward."

God spoke these words to Abram after he had rescued his nephew Lot, from Kedorlaomer the king of Elam, and his four allies. Kerdorlaomer had controlled the area around the Dead Sea, for 13 years. In an effort the free himself from Kerdorlaomer, the king of Sodom went to battle, and lost his city. Abram’s nephew, Lot, became part of the plunder the Kerdorlaomer took, so Abram and 318 of his men pursued and defeated Kerdorlaomer, rescuing Lot.

When the king of Sodom offered Abram a reward, he refused, because he did not want to be indebted to the Sodomite king at all.

Genesis 14:21-23 (NIV) 21 The king of Sodom said to Abram, "Give me the people and keep the goods for yourself." 22 But Abram said to the king of Sodom, "I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, and have taken an oath 23 that I will accept nothing belonging to you, not even a thread or the thong of a sandal, so that you will never be able to say, 'I made Abram rich.'

What a challenge to us all. Is God truly your shield and reward? Or, do you accept the offering of someone or something in order to feel more secure and safe? Is God’s provision enough? Is it enough for you to simply know that you have done God’s will?

Father, please help us to put all of our trust in You, and be satisfied with Your provision. You alone are our shield and reward. Amen.

Love, Pastor Don