Bible Studies for Life: October 20

Abram and Lot: Family Rights • Genesis 13:5-11, 14-18

By Bobby McKay

“I am sitting up front!” “I want to pick the restaurant!” “I had the remote control first!” “He is on my side of the couch!” Do any of these expressions sound familiar? If you have been blessed with children, you know they can become territorial and even selfish. Young parents quickly realize that you do not have to teach your child to be rebellious; you have to do the opposite: train them to do what is right. The youngest child and the oldest adults have many things in common. For example, we are all prone to look after our interests first and refuse to humble ourselves before others to preserve or save a relationship. Are you willing to trust God even when you feel wronged by others or slighted by circumstances? This week, the Scripture provides excellent insight into serving others, patience, and the beauty of interpersonal relationships.

Genesis 13:5-8

In the previous chapter, God promised to bless Abram and give him immeasurable property, riches, livestock, and his own nation. God told Abram that the number of his descendants would exceed the grains of sand. Once in Canaan, the large number of herds and flocks created an issue for Abram and Lot. The abundance was more than the land could provide. The herders working for Abram and Lot became frustrated as they constantly ran into each other and needed some breathing room. Being a wise and godly man, Abram goes to Lot to agree on a solution. Sometimes, in churches and families, people scatter or crumble at this first sign of conflict. It should not be this way. No one should enjoy conflict, but many times, God can use it to build our faith and dependence on Him. In the conflict story of Abram and Lot, God was preparing to bless Abram the whole time. We never know when God is working on our behalf and behind the scenes to bring us His good gifts.

Genesis 13:9-11

Abram was motivated by peace. He was direct, but he was also diplomatic. With a presidential election only days away, wouldn’t it be refreshing to hear promises and commitments of peace? Abram was gracious and deferred to Lot. Obviously, Lot jumped at the opportunity and chose the land known as the Jordan Valley. It was verdant and beautiful to look upon. It even resembled the Garden of Eden. The problem was it was neighbors with Sodom. Lot chose what was beautiful to the eye, but bad for the soul. Lot lived by sight, Abram was a man of faith, a stark contrast that serves as a powerful moral lesson. 

Genesis 13:14-18

After Lot and Abram separated, God revealed to Abram the full expanse of His blessing. God told Abram that his descendants would be the beneficiaries of this land with no expiration date. Although Abram had no sons or heirs at the time of hearing this, he still trusted God. He trusted God with an inward belief and an outward expression. He explored the land God had given him and also built an altar. He worshipped the Lord after the grace was received. Abram trusted God in times of potential conflict, personal choices, and public commitment. We live in a society inundated with individual interests and pride. We can all be wise to remember Abram and his lessons of humility, trust, and obedience. God sees and will bless you more than you could ever imagine.   

McKay is pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church, Morton.