Genesis 13:1-18
Nobody likes conflict, but it always happens, and it just seems to be most prevalent in and around family matters. So today Abram is faced with conflict and I love the example he gives us for handling it--He deals with the conflict straight up. No hedging. No anger. He simply addresses Lot with the facts of the situation and voices his desire for a win-win outcome.
So how might you draw on Abram's example the next time conflict surfaces? Was there anything else in Genesis 13 that stood out to you today? Tami W.
I remember that engaging in conflict does not often resolve it and learning that keeping our distance does not negate the love we have for one another. "Let there be no more strife." Seems like the world has taught us that life without strife is boring and there is almost an addictive "quality" to it. But that to me is just another stain of what sin brought into the world. Peace is far more appealing to me and more of an example of faith in our almighty Father.
What stands out to me in this passage is Lot's willingness to live so close to Sodom. Verse 13 says that the men of Sodom were wicked. Isn't it likely that Lot already knew about that? I think so. Yet, he was willing to pitch his tent near Sodom. And if you know the "rest of the story", soon Lot is living in Sodom. A great lesson for us is to flee from evil; not see how close we can get to it without getting burned. Too many times we ignore God's counsel to flee from sin and impurity and instead we sort of linger around it; trying not to get too close....and then WHAM! we find ourselves in the midst of sin. In contrast to Lot, Abram lived in the land where God had provided. It might not have looked as nice but it turned out to be a far better piece of real estate!
I think the message is pretty straight-forward this morning. When a conflict arises, deal with it! Not always easy... but its the way to go.
What I find interesting is that Abram didn't go to Lot with a decision in mind i.e. He will take the Valley of Jordon, the better area and leave the rest to Lot. Sometimes we go in to solve a conflict with our minds made up on how WE will benefit from the resolution. Abram left the decision to Lot, knowing well that chances are, Lot would choose the better land.
The other thing I find interesting is that Lot chose the land with the 'greener grass' apparantly not knowing that "the men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked and sinners against the Lord" Genesis 13:13. In chapter 19 we read of the downfall of Sodom. Sometimes we look for the 'greener' more prosperous road to take in life by the worlds standards, that often leads to destruction. Whenever we are faced with decisions about where we live, work, worship etc, its always important to seek the will of the Lord lest we make decisions based on the potential prosperity we see with the physical eyes, versus what the Lord would have us do.
Today I see in this passage that Abraham valued the relationship more than anything else. If they were to have stayed together the bickering may have become part of their relationship as well as their herdsmens and would have the potential to damage that relationship beyond repair. Abraham showed real wisdom & discernment in his approach to resolving the problem at hand and accepted the decision with humility.
I agree with Nigel.
I also noticed that God brought Abram back to where he first met God. Often God brings us full circle, so to speak (vs. 3). Another thing that struck me is that possessions are often the cause of grief between people. They take our focus off God. The third "aha" moment in this passage, for me, comes from verses 14 - 18. God would bless Abram no matter where he went because Abram obeyed God, and gave God the honor and glory (first place).
Personal conflict - I find it almost easier to deal with when I'm actually IN the conflict than when it's between others. Specifically our children - they are embroiled in a 2 year old conflict which has resulted in a son and son-in-law not speaking.Every day I ask myself "what should I be doing?" and it seems the only answer given is "wait patiently for the Lord to move" and I know that won't happen until the men in this conflict move closer to the One who Heals. But for this mother, the waiting is painful.
Abrams example is a powerful one. I try to do the same as he did when conflict in my family arises . I tell them they have to work things out ,Get right with each other , forgive, for they are family. When it comes to others , it can be more difficult .I'm learning that I have to trust in God and be more humble . Amen praise God
Yes, Blessed are the peacemakers. Abram thought more of God than himself. Lot is an example of foolish thinking and living.
Yes, it is a wonder why Lot chose to live near Sodom and then in Sodom. Abram was blessed in dealing rightly and eventually was able to safe Lot. I think too it is a good example of flee from evil. James 4:7 submit to God resist the devil and he will flee from you!
Abrams example testifies to some very important characteristics of GOD - no matter our situation, He will provide, He will make a way where there seems no way, despite the waves He will be there in our darkest times. Conflict would only have disproven that his faith was accounted to him as righteousness in that the wrath of man does not work the will of GOD; so why fight and deceive to have what will just be eaten up by robbers and worms when we can submit to - GOD IS IN CONTROL - and have the peace of knowing we are in His presence; and, all these things shall be added unto us.
Abram chose to be selfless instead of selfish. He thought of others first. Lot thought of himself and the ones he was with first. Look where that got him!! I need to think of others first, God takes care of the rest.