5/1/22 - God Speaks to Abram’s Doubt - Genesis 15 - Pastor Jason Fritz

"Doubting does not prove that a man has no faith, but only that his faith is small. And even when our faith is small, the Lord is ready to help us." J.C. Ryle Doubts. At times we all have them. It might surprise you to know that God wants to speak directly to our lack of faith. In fact, when we doubt He is ready and able to give us what we need. This was certainly true in the life of Abram. "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 very great.” Genesis 15:1 God speaks to people in many different ways. In this moment he uses a vision. Note carefully the first thing God acknowledges is Abram’s anxiety, "Do not fear." This is the most often repeated command in the Bible and for good reason. Humans are fearful creatures. A few of us might be adventurous thrill-seekers willing to risk our lives for the adrenaline rush but let’s be honest; there are fears common to us all. The fear of being unloved, failure and rejection to name a few. Can you relate? Fear is a very powerful motivator. There are healthy God-given fears such as when you are in a situation where you or someone you love might be harmed. This fear should be used for self-preservation. That’s not what is being spoken of by God. This is fear that causes you to doubt Him. This is fear that undermines your faith in what God says.   Anytime we are afraid of taking God at His word, we are acting irrational.  God speaks directly to what Abram is experiencing in his life by saying, “I am your shield.” This is exactly what Abram needed. Last week we saw Abram defeating a much larger army made up of a partnership of four kings. Abram needed a shield because there could be retribution at any time. God also tells him, “I will reward you.” He needed reward because he had denied himself great wealth offered from the king of Sodom. Abram did what he believed was right and that came at personal cost. Therefore, God lets Abram know He saw and He will provide and protect. Don’t for a moment think God doesn’t know what’s happening with you and your fears. He wants to speak to them.