Read Genesis 13 -- 15
In Today's Reading:
Abram and Lot separate; Abram moves to Hebron, builds an altar; Lot rescued; Melchizedek blesses Abram; God's covenant with Abram
The testing of Abram's faith began after he and Lot left Ur of the Chaldees on their journey of about 1000 miles to the promised land. Upon arrival, he discovered there was a famine and they traveled south near Sodom where the pastureland was best. Abram and Lot both had large flocks. Soon there was a strife (quarreling) between the herdsmen of Abram's cattle (livestock) and . . . of Lot's cattle (Genesis 13:7). Abram could have taken the best for himself since he was older than his nephew, as well as being the leader. Instead, he graciously said to Lot: Let there be no strife . . . for we are brethren (related). Is not the whole land before you? (let us) separate . . . if you will take the left . . . then I will go . . . right (13:8-9). Lot selfishly took advantage of Abram's generous offer and chose all the well-watered plain to the left and to the right.
It was after this experience that Abram received a promise from the Lord that He would make Abram's seed (descendants) as numerous as the dust of the earth (13:16). Abram journeyed north to live in the plain of Mamre . . . in Hebron, and built there an altar to the LORD (13:18).
In contrast Lot decided to be friends with the people of Sodom, who were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly (13:10-13).
Lot was typical of many Christians today who deplore our wicked society but who make decisions based on personal and material advantages. Only a few listen seriously to their Savior, Who said: No servant can serve two masters (Luke 16:13). Satan wants us to doubt that when we obey the Lord, we have chosen the best in life.
The Apostle Paul wrote: We are troubled on every side . . . perplexed (puzzled), but not in despair; Persecuted . . . cast down, but not destroyed. . . . we faint not. . . . our light affliction (troubles), which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (II Corinthians 4:8-17).
Word Studies:
13:6 bear = support; 13:12 toward = near; 14:11 victuals = provisions; 14:13 confederate = allies; 14:17 dale = valley; 15:4 bowels = your own flesh and blood.
Christ Portrayed:
By the high priest, Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-20; Hebrews 4:15-16; 5:5-10; 7:1-4). Christ is our High Priest today Who is interceding in prayer for us and Who is deserving of our gifts and service to Him.
Pray For:
Government Officials: Rep. Thomas Davis III (VA), Sen. Mike DeWine (OH), Rep. Chris John (LA), Rep. Nancy Johnson (CT), and Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (NY) · Country: Jamaica (3 million) in the West Indies · Major languages: English and Creole · Religious freedom · 78% Protestant; 10% Roman Catholic; 7% Afro-American spiritist · Prayer Suggestion: Call to the Lord for help; He will save you out of your troubles (Psalm 34:17).
Optional Reading: Matthew 5
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:3