Genesis 15:1 The Lord: Our Shield and Great Provider

In Genesis 14 Abraham refuses to keep any of the spoils of victory, “I raise my hand to the Lord, the Most High God, Creator of heavene and earth, and vow that I will take nothing belonging to you, not even a thread or the strap of a sandal” (Gen 14:22).

He wants to be sure that the Lord receives the glory for making him prosperous, “That way you can never say, ‘It is I who made Abram rich” (Gen 14:23).

In Genesis 15:1 The Lord speaks to Abraham saying, “Fear not, Abram! I am your shield and the one who will reward you in great abundance.”

The Lord had already protected Abraham by granting him victory in the battle. Now He was also going to reward him. Abraham did not need to rely on the spoils of battle in order to prosper.

This promise of protection and blessing applies to Abraham in a special way because God promised the blessings of the Abrahamic Covenant directly to him. Ultimately, the nation of Israel and the Messiah would come through him.

However, we too can rest in the promise of God’s protection and blessing. Throughout the Scripture God highlights these two aspects of his love and care for us. They apply not only to Abraham but to you and me as well.

The psalmist says, “Certainly you reward the godly, Lord. Like a shield you protect them in your good favor” (Ps 5:12). “He will bless his loyal followers, both young and old” (Ps 115:13).

Life is constantly filled with opportunities to trust the Lord for protection and for blessing. He provides both.

In our day it is easy to look to other things for protection. Automated monitoring systems protect our homes. Rockets and nuclear weapons guard our nation. International alliances assure us of help in the event of worldwide trouble.

We rely on our bank accounts, our pension plans and the stock market to provide for our needs. We have freezers full of food and pantries stocked with can goods.

None of these things are wrong. There is wisdom in planning, saving, and preparing. The danger is that we may forget that the Lord is our great protector and provider. We must rest in Him.

The Lord protected Abraham and blessed him greatly. He will do the same for you and me. As we encounter life’s difficulties, we do not face them alone. God is with us.

“I am your shield and the one who will reward you in great abundance.”
- Gen 15:1