So Lot chose for himself the whole plain of the Jordan and set out toward the east. The two men parted company: Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom.
Genesis 13:11–12 (NIV84)
We have an interesting comparison and contrast in chapter 13, between Abram and his nephew Lot. Both men were extremely wealthy, possessing large flocks and herds of livestock. Any farmer or rancher knows that it is necessary to have a certain amount of fertile land per animal for their sustenance. It should be noted that they were nomads living in a land that belonged to various Canaanite tribes. So, they were sharing the land, not only with each other but with the people who lived there. Abram and Lot reached a point in personal wealth that they needed to spread out to have enough land for their livestock.
So, how does a person make decisions between friends and family concerning the management of personal wealth? This is the point I want us to think about today. Abram, the patriarch and the one with authority to make the decision, exercised humility and selflessness by allowing Lot to choose his preference. Much has been made of Lot’s choice as being selfish and greedy, but keep in mind that either way they went, whether Abram or Lot, they would be living in proximity to idol-worshipping Canaanites. We also learn in the writings of the Apostle Peter that Lot was a righteous man, (2 Peter 2:7-8).
Nevertheless, Lot made his choice based upon what seemed the most enjoyable place to live, and the most advantageous for the management of his flocks and herds. He made this choice even though the most wicked and violent of the Canaanites lived in this area. The Apostle Peter tells us that Lot was tormented daily by having to witness the wickedness of the people of Sodom and the five cities of the plain. As we will read soon, his choice proved devastating to his family and, no doubt, the loss of much if not all of his wealth.
On the other hand, Abram sought the presence and favor of God. God came to Abram and confirmed his promise, directing Abram to dwell in the land that would ultimately be given to his descendants. He moved his family and animals to Hebron where he built an altar to the Lord. This was his priority and the fabric of his life. He was not a perfect man, as we have already seen, but he served a perfect God. We live in a land of plenty surrounded constantly by people who do not know our God. We share in the blessing and bounty of the land. It is God who blesses and gives favor to His faithful children. Jesus said:
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33 (NIV84)
My Prayer For You Today
that you will seek God as your priority over the growth and management of wealth,
or the pleasures of a pleasant land.