July 17, 2021

And he [Abram] believed in the LORD; and He accounted it to him for righteousness.    Genesis 15:6

One of the teaching methods of our loving, gracious LORD is repetition. The above verse is stated three more times in the Holy Scriptures: Romans 4:3, Galatians 3:6, and James 2:23 for our encouragement. Here is the promise that Abram believed:

“count the stars if you are able to number them…so shall your descendants be.” (v.5)

And God reminded him:

“I am the LORD, who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans, to give you this land to inherit it.” (v.7)

He powerfully “brought you out” (saved you!) and by His power is “bringing you in” (sanctifying you!). As you grow closer to Him, the world will assail every quality trait that He is developing in you. Every step of obedience will be challenged, ridiculed, or attacked. Your perseverance will build “spiritual muscle.”

And when the vultures came down upon the carcasses, Abram drove them away. (v.11)

Covenant interruptions are bound to come. You will be tested! Do not allow “vultures” to interfere with God’s will for you. With God, you can drive them away. Beloved, may your response to the LORD be the kind of belief that rests completely on what He has done and is doing in your life to prepare you for heaven as He prepares a place especially for you! How fitting that Jesus was a carpenter. He is vitally interested in building your character into an entire lifestyle of gratitude and obedience! To humble yourself before the LORD, seeking to know His character and His will, is rewarding beyond description—both now and later.

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up. James 4:10

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5

Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

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