“And when the vultures came down on the carcasses, Abram drove them away.” Gen. 15:1
God’s Promise
This verse comes on the heels of God giving His promise to Abram, that he would be the father of many nations. God was speaking his purpose over him and now asking Abram to prepare for the “sealing” of the covenant that God would assure him of this promise. BUT just when preparations are finished, vultures come down and begin to peck at, eat at, attempt to drag away the components of the promise.
Now, I know that you must be seeing the connection to the enemy and how he is quick to try and steal our promises and keep us from even entering the covenants of God, but I don’t want you to miss the second portion of the verse… “Abram drove them away.” I am reminded of the authority that God has given to us to protect our promises. We know that God Himself could have eliminated those vultures… He could have prevented them from even entering the scene… but He doesn’t. Instead, Abram steps into the headship that God gave to him to drive opposition away. He does not stand back and watch as his promise is stolen. Instead, Abram demonstrates for us the tenacity that is SO OFTEN required to guard our promises.
Vultures
Many versions call these vultures, “birds of prey.” Meaning they feast off flesh. This is why it is so important that we make no room for the flesh! I would like to propose that there are demons that prey on your flesh and are eager to peck at you while you make your preparations for the call of God. Fear, frustration, discouragement, disappointment, distraction… the list could go on and on.
What is your response in these moments?
Do you recognize the enemies attempts to steal, eat, pack at you and your dreams?
Moreover, do you recognize YOUR power and authority to drive those demons away?
They say the best way to scare off vulture is to make yourself big and loud. I can’t help but chuckle as I get a visual of Abram flailing his arms as he runs TOWARDS the birds… potentially squawking or yelling very loudly. But to be honest, I think I need to do some of this in my own life!
So, here’s to flailing loudly and driving away the “vultures” in our lives. Who is with me?!
