Abram and Lot approached one circumstance together. But they made two very different choices, resulting in positive and negative consequences.
While traveling and living together, Abram and Lot’s herdsmen realized that the land couldn’t support everyone and everything. (And verse 7 tells us there were other people living in this land, too.) So the herdsmen began to argue with each other.
Abram didn’t like the conflict and disunity. He recognized that it wasn’t honoring God. So he offered an unselfish solution. He suggested that the two men and their families part ways. Not only that, Abram offered Lot the first choice of the land.
Abram demonstrated a sacrificial love that put Lot first. Abram was a peacemaker, which brings us to Avery’s memory verse for next week (Matthew 5:9). He led his family in his good actions and he modeled a godly character.
What solutions for harmony do I offer in my earthly relationships? Do they promote sacrificial love or love of self? Am I a peacemaker or a pot stirrer?
As Abram probably expected, Lot chose the best land. Verse 10 describes the land as well watered, resembling the Garden of Eden as well as Lot’s positive gains in Egypt. He saw prosperity and wealth and made his decision based on what he could gain. He acted on sight not faith. And this decision was devastating later for Lot and his family. We’ll discuss these results in Genesis 14 and 19.
Are my eyes focused on the world, on my problems or on God? Am I different from the world? Do people know I am a Christian?
After Abram and Lot separated, God encouraged and confirmed His promises to Abram. Abram responded by putting feet to his faith. He obeyed (verse 18) and built an altar to commemorate this moment of God’s faithfulness.
God asks us to do the same thing he asked of Abram — Focus on God’s promises and character, then just walk wherever He directs us.