How can Abram's example guide our decisions regarding material wealth today? A Moment of Decision in the Desert “ ‘But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth.” ’ ” (Genesis 14:22) After rescuing Lot and recovering enormous amounts of spoil, Abram faced the king of Sodom’s tempting offer: “Take the goods for yourself.” Instead, Abram lifted his hand in sworn allegiance to the LORD and walked away from the wealth. Why Abram’s Choice Matters for Us • Scripture presents this event as literal history; Abram actually forfeited real treasure. • His response shows how to handle material gain without compromising loyalty to God. • Because “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8), Abram’s faith still instructs believers. Core Principles We Can Imitate 1. Acknowledge God as the sole Source • Abram called Him “God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth.” • Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds, “It is He who gives you power to make wealth.” • Every financial decision belongs under His authority. 2. Reject wealth that threatens your witness • “So you will never be able to say, ‘I made Abram rich’ ” (Genesis 14:23). • Proverbs 22:1—“A good name is more desirable than great riches.” • If money comes with strings that tug you away from integrity, let it go. 3. Trust God to provide what you surrender • Immediately after Abram’s refusal, God promised, “Do not fear… I am your shield, your very great reward” (Genesis 15:1). • Hebrews 13:5—“Be content with what you have, for He has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ ” 4. Value eternal treasure above earthly gain • Matthew 6:19-21—store up treasure in heaven. • 1 Timothy 6:6-10—godliness with contentment is great gain; the love of money pierces the soul. Practical Ways to Walk This Out Today • Settle ownership: dedicate salary, savings, and possessions to the Lord. • Evaluate income sources: avoid dishonest or questionable ventures. • Give first: honor God with “firstfruits of all your increase” (Proverbs 3:9). • Simplify lifestyle: distinguish needs from wants; resist status-driven purchases. • Maintain accountability: invite trusted believers to speak into financial choices. • Use wealth to bless: support gospel work and relief of the needy (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). Encouraging Promises for Faith-Filled Stewardship • “The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and He adds no sorrow with it” (Proverbs 10:22). • “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). • “Whoever sows generously will also reap generously” (2 Corinthians 9:6). Closing Thought Abram lifted his hand to heaven and laid his claim on God, not the gold. When we treat material wealth the same way—holding it lightly, stewarding it faithfully, and seeking the Lord’s honor above all—He remains our unfailing reward, now and forever. |
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