Don't Be Afraid (1)

'The word of the Lord came to Abram...saying, "Do not be afraid."' Genesis 15:1 NKJV

What a beautiful day today...Have you ever been afraid? Something new is happening in your life or changes you weren't sure of has brought some fear? God asked Abraham to do a very difficult thing: '..."Leave your country...and your father's household and go to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing..." So Abram left, as the Lord had told him.' (Genesis 12:1-4 NIV) If you're afraid of changing jobs, houses or locations, stand on this Scripture because as a redeemed child of God you are entitled to the blessing of Abraham. All our fears basically come down to these two questions: First: 'Lord, will You protect me?' Secondly: 'Lord, will You provide for me?' With Abraham, God addresses both: 'Do not be afraid...I am your shield, your very great reward.' (Genesis 15:1 NIV) The words, 'very great reward,' literally mean, 'I am your unfailing, inexhaustible, ever increasing source of supply.' Awesome! You don't have to go to anybody else for protection or provision; God's got you covered! And notice what happened next. God entered into a covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15:18); He said to him: 'I'll take care of you and your descendants as long as you live.' But there was a problem. 'Then birds of prey came down on the [sacrifice], but Abram drove them away.' (Genesis 15:11 NIV) There's a lesson here. Even though God has promised to take care of you, you must drive away the worries Satan sends to prey on your mind. How do you do that? By standing squarely on the promises God has made to you in His Word. If your worries are overwhelming; the place to start is by admitting that it is through Christ and Christ only do you get your strength!