Genesis 13

Genesis 13

13:1 Think about Lot for a moment. How old is he? Why is he traveling with Abram and Sarai? He has been with this family as their "only child" for a very long time. What impression would be made on him by the way Abram acted in Egypt? Do you think Lot acted the same way when he lived among the men of Sodom (Genesis 19:1-29)? Think about it!

13:4 Did Abram think that God was only in this place? It just makes me wonder what his faith was like at this point. Maybe he lost his way for a while and when he came across the alter he made before he remembered God and bowed the knee.

13:7 It is not hard to think what the herdsmen quarreled about. It's more surprising that their quarreling isn't mentioned until now. I guess it just came to a head and the split was imminent.

13:7 Why the need to remind us that there were natives? Sometimes we need a reminder that we are not alone, and that others are watching. Maybe the neighbors were contributing to the disagreements? Always remember that we are known by the way we handle this kind of predicament. When you are confronted with opposition, remember that we are Christians (!), and the Lord is an ever present help (Psalm 46).

13:9 Look how Abram handled the situation. Abram and Lot had been through much together, and now it is time to choose a path and follow it. In life, we do not have to be exclusive. Though our path and the path of our parents may not be the same, but we still have the obligation to behave rightly and justly.

13:11 Was it wrong for Lot to choose the way that looked fruitful? When I read this passage, I am tempted to condemn Lot for thinking only of worldly gain. I must realize that worldly gain is not evil in itself, but our heart attitude toward that gain is what matters. Lot is shown to be faithful after this when he chooses to believe God and leaves all his wealth behind to destruction (Genesis 19:23) even when his wife did not (Genesis 19:26). See 2 Peter 2:7-8 for more on Lot.

13:15 The promise is still alive!! Time had passed since Abram was here receiving the promise in Genesis 12:2-3. It is incredible to me how God remains faithful to his promises even when we have forgotten them. Abram may not have forgotten, but it is amazing when you read a passage that shows God's faithfulness that you know you knew but did not remember until that moment.

13:17 The command to "Go" is just as powerful here as it is in Matthew 28. What have we to do except obey?