365 days with Newton

6 AUGUST

Jesus our shield

‘After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.’ Genesis 15:1
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Romans 5:1–11

The promise expresses the believer’s safety: the Lord is his shield (Psalm 18:2). Many images denote the safety and security of those who put their trust in him—none more comfortable or suitable than this of a shield:
(i) against the demands of the law and justice of God. Too many would shelter themselves with a refuge of lies—self-righteousness, false notions of God’s mercy—repentance, promises and purposes are all they have to trust to. But this is like trusting to a cobweb to shield us from a cannonball. Jesus is the only shield. He bore the wrath for his people and keeps it from them. Under his wing they are safe and the swift sword that justice draws, flaming and red, shall pass them by.
(ii) from Satan. This is the shield of faith. Faith itself is not properly our shield, but Christ is the shield which faith opposes to the enemy, and thus his fiery darts are quenched. As one said, ‘Trouble not me Satan, I am a weak and sinful woman, but go to Jesus—he shall answer you.’ So the Apostle (in Romans 8:34) looks round and challenges his enemies, Who shall condemn? Then he takes up his shield, It is Christ that died. With this shield in hand, we cannot be greatly hurt.

FOR MEDITATION:
Heavy charges Satan brings
To fill me with distress;
Let me hide beneath thy wings,
And plead thy righteousness:
Lord, to thee for help I call,
’Tis thy promise bids me come;
Tell him thou hast paid for all,
And that shall strike him dumb.

SERMON SERIES: GENESIS, NO. 29 [3/5], GENESIS 15:1