Scripture Reading —Genesis 13:1-13
“Is not the whole land before you? Let’s part company. If you go to the left, I’ll go to the right...”
Abraham had mentored Lot for years, but their family cooperative had reached its limits. The local grazing land could not support both of their herds. Their herdsmen argued and got on each other’s nerves. They needed more space.
Abraham could have sided with his men against Lot or told Lot to know his place, but instead he valued their relationship over the petty details of disagreements. Abraham wanted to bless Lot and put tension out of their relationship.
Abraham loved Lot enough to give him the opportunity to take the best land. He was not concerned with having the best for himself, but was willing to let Lot make the first choice. He would accept whatever was left over. Rather than squabbling, Abraham trusted God to take care of him and provide for his needs. He demonstrated to Lot that he cared about him. Abraham showed Lot that their relationship was more important than arguing over material things and desires.
All families can struggle when there is too much togetherness. Being too close under one roof, for example, can lead to tensions in relationships.
How are you showing that relationships are more important than things and desires? How can you prioritize the relationships in your life?
Lord, forgive us if we have made things and desires more important than people. Help us not to get pulled into senseless arguments, but to show your love to others always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Steven and DebKoster
Steven and Deb Koster have a passion for marriages, families, and spiritual growth in the home. Both are ordained ministers in the Christian Reformed Church in North America. Steven formerly served as editor of Today and director of ReFrame's English-language outreach. Deb leads Family Fire, ReFrame’s family ministry at FamilyFire.com and on Facebook. The Kosters have three children.
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