NO FEAR 

By Chelsea Seaton 

After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward." Genesis 15:1

I’ve battled fear for most of my life. You probably wouldn’t pick that up just by having a conversation with me because I can be quite the daredevil. I can bungie jump, rappel down mountainsides, and kill spiders on the spot. I’m always up for new things. But, the reality is worry and anxiety have been my consistent tormentors, and when the unknown is in front of me, I’m terrified of what could be around the corner. All the worst-case scenarios fill my head, piercing my mind like arrows. 

In Genesis 15, we see Abram (whose name was later changed to Abraham) facing many unknowns ahead of him too. He was in a new place, had just fought and won against a large army that might come back for revenge, and had been promised children when he was very old, which was impossible in the natural. Without TikTok and Netflix to distract him, I’m sure he had lots of time to imagine the worst-case scenarios and feel afraid. 

It’s in this moment of fear and the unknown that God shows up and says, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield.” This verse is the first time the word “shield” is used in the Bible. God could have said, “I’m your protector,” which would have also been accurate, but I think the word “shield” is used to give us more of a mental picture. Shields are used in battle. They are tough, and they prevent danger from getting to you. Arrows are deflected and swords deferred. Shields protect and can be wielded at a moment’s notice. Furthermore, warriors carry shields. With the use of this word, not only is God saying He’s our protector, He’s also letting us know that we’re warriors too. 

When we’re faced with change, unknowns, or danger (real or imagined), it’s easy to feel fear. But when we remember that God is our sturdy shield, we can have faith that the arrows won’t reach us. God is our protector, and when we know how much He loves us, there is no room for fear. Like the Bible says: “Perfect love casts out fear.” 

Today, if you find yourself in the same boat as Abram, allow your heavenly Father to minister to your heart. Just like He told Abram, ask Him to remind you that you don’t have to be afraid because He is your shield. Allow His protection and perfect love to cast out every fear. 

Prayer

Father, today I receive Your perfect love that casts out fear. Remind me today that You are my protector. I place my hope and faith in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Memory Verse

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)