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.” (Genesis 15:1 NIV84)
Abram had just risked his life and family to go rescue Lot, then gave one tenth of the revenue to a high priest named Melchizedek. After that powerful moment, God approached Abram to confirm His covenant promises with three new blessings:
1). Security. Having God as our friend means we have NOTHING to fear! Nothing!! Who can defeat God? Who can hold back His blessings? With God we have security for life. So don't worry or be afraid. Most of our fears in life (including financial) is because we haven't established or maintained that relationship with the God over all fears.
2) Shield. Having just defeated a large enemy there was bound to be revenge on the minds of those kingdoms. Instead, God provides Abram a shield of personal and financial protection to make his enemies stay away. Making income is not that difficult...keeping it from being lost in accidents, thefts, repairs, maintenance, and greed IS difficult. When God is our shield, then our lives and livelihood is protected.
3) Reward. Our measure of reward these days is money. But money is temporary. God gives and He can take it away. But His Love is permanent, and He loves to bless His children with the best He has (including money at times). God is a permanent giver---and offers us eternally lasting rewards.
All of this was because Abram put God first in his life---in obedience AND in giving. Those are three good motives to make God first in our lives as well ... In our calendar and our paychecks.
I wonder what "after this" blessings are awaiting our God First actions?
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