Compare Lot's choice with Proverbs 3:5-6. How should we make decisions? Lot’s Choice in Genesis 13 Genesis 13:10-11: “Lot looked up and saw that the whole plain of the Jordan, toward Zoar, was well watered everywhere, like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt… So Lot chose for himself the whole plain of the Jordan and set out toward the east.” • Lot evaluated strictly by sight: fertile land, abundant water, prosperous cities. • He separated from Abraham, moving near Sodom—“men of Sodom were wicked, great sinners against the LORD” (v. 13). • No record of prayer, altar, or consultation with God before the move. • Immediate gain, long-term loss: eventual captivity (Genesis 14), moral corrosion for his family (Genesis 19), and lasting grief. Proverbs 3:5-6—God’s Way to Choose “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” • Trust—confidence resting on God’s character and promises, not on circumstances. • Whole heart—undivided reliance; no hidden reservations. • Reject self-reliance—human insight is limited and easily deceived (Jeremiah 17:9). • Acknowledge Him—actively bring God into every decision through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel. • God directs—He “makes straight” (or “levels”) the path, removing unseen dangers and leading to blessing (Psalm 37:5). Side-by-Side Contrast Lot • Decision driver: visible advantage • Process: human reasoning alone • Outcome: tangled, dangerous path Proverbs 3:5-6 believer • Decision driver: confidence in the Lord • Process: prayer, Scripture, obedience • Outcome: straight, God-cleared path Principles for God-Honoring Decisions 1. Begin with worship • Like Abram building altars (Genesis 13:4), center every choice on God’s worthiness. 2. Seek Scripture first • Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Does the option align with clear biblical commands and principles? 3. Pray specifically • James 1:5 promises wisdom to those who ask in faith. • Invite God to veto plans that look attractive but lead to compromise. 4. Evaluate motives • Hebrews 4:12 exposes self-centered desires. • Am I chasing personal gain or God’s glory? 5. Consult godly counsel • Proverbs 11:14—“victory is won through many advisers.” • Mature believers help spot blind spots Lot missed. 6. Wait for peace and providence • Colossians 3:15—let Christ’s peace rule (umpire) in your heart. • Watch for doors God opens or closes; avoid forcing outcomes. Living It Out Today • When facing a career move, relationship choice, or financial decision, refuse to decide by sight alone. • Open your Bible before you open a spreadsheet. • Talk with the Lord and with mature believers before signing contracts or making commitments. • Remember Lot: the greener pasture is not always the godlier path. • Remember Proverbs 3: the God-directed path is always the safest, straightest, and most satisfying route for every follower of Christ. |
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