Abba’s Child
“After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be great.” (Genesis 15:1)
Reflection
Over time, as parents get to know each child’s personality traits and tendencies, their quirks, passions, strengths and challenges, a parent can almost predict how they will react in certain situations. In simple terms, with time, parents figure out what makes their child tick. Some parents can even tell if something is troubling their child without their child saying a word, giving them time to get out ahead of the situation to provide their child with the emotional support they need to negotiate their emotions healthily. The support of parents varies depending on the circumstances. Whatever the situation and the support provided, this dynamic reflects the close bond between a parent and a child and gives the child a sense of safety and security. It results from the parent’s unending love for their child and the child’s trust in the parent.
Application
In Genesis chapter fifteen, the Bible narrative opens with God appearing to Abram in a vision sometime after Abram rescued his nephew Lot from the hands of Chedorlaomer, King of Elam. It states:
“After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be great.” (Gen 15:1)
Abram had not uttered a word, yet the Lord spoke to the fear in Abram’s heart. Like a good Father, the Lord knew Abram’s worries without Abram needing to say a word. Childless, despite God’s promise to provide him with an heir, Abram opened up to the Lord, stating:
“O Lord God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” (Gen 15:2)
The Lord addressed Abram’s fears, reminding Abram that the Lord is his shield and followed through on His Word by providing Abram with a son named Isaac, through whom a nation was born and a promise was fulfilled.
Our heavenly father knows our hearts' desires and deepest fears. And, like a child, Abba's child, we have the freedom and privilege to share our deepest fears with Him. As we open our hearts to Him, He will respond by reminding us of who He is.
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Prayer
Father, you know my deepest desires and my greatest fears. Lord, help me remember that I can bring every worry to You and that You are greater than anything I might fear in this world. You are the Lord. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
Brad
