“And the king of Sodom, the king of Gomorrah, the king of Admah, the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar) went out and joined together in battle in the Valley of Siddim 9 against Chedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of nations, Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar—four kings against five. 10 Now the Valley of Siddim was full of asphalt pits; and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled; some fell there, and the remainder fled to the mountains. 11 Then they took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all their provisions, and went their way. 12 They also took Lot, Abram’s brother’s son who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed. 13 Then one who had escaped came and told Abram the Hebrew, for he dwelt by the terebinth trees of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol and brother of Aner; and they were allies with Abram. ” Genesis 14:8-13 NKJV
God who was and is and is to come (Revelation 1:8),
Men, warring against each other for power and land and prosperity. Same today. Man has not grown wiser. Abram had tried to make allies rather then enemies. But when it came to saving his family he was not a coward and faced up to his responsibilities. He rescued Lot and all his family, servants and all his belongings.
God, You gave Abram the victory even though Lot did not deserve it and would return to live amongst a people whose sin is very grave (Genesis 18:20). To a place he and his family were actually still not safe. We wonder sometimes at those we know who have seen Your Son, Jesus and tasted freedom and yet return to live their own way. Abram shows his love for Lot by rescuing him. You showed us Your saving grace Lord God, to us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8). You rescued us.
We all have a little of Lot in us. I admit it Lord, as You know anyway! Sometimes I do not want to be good all the time. I do want to sulk or give a sarcastic response or tell others what their problem are! And I pray Lord when I try to be like Jesus, I will not be self righteous or condescending. Abraham did not break off relations with his family though they were on different journeys. He kept on interceding for them ( Genesis 18:27-33). It made all the difference.
We need Your help Lord to respond and relate to other people. To check on our own hearts and want the best for others,
In Jesus name we pray.
Worship Saturday 10th January 202
Jesus take me as I am.
I can come no other way.
Take me deeper into You.
Make my flesh life melt away.
Make me like a precious stone,
Crystal clear and finely honed,
Life of Jesus shining through,
Giving glory back to you.
Lyrics: Dave Bryant