How can we resolve conflicts like Abram and Lot in Genesis 13:7? Conflict on the Horizon • “And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock. At that time the Canaanites and Perizzites were dwelling in the land.” – Genesis 13:7 • Limited pasture, expanding herds, and two family branches pressed into the same space: a perfect storm for friction. • The presence of watching pagans (“Canaanites and Perizzites”) reminds us that family conflicts never stay private; outsiders form their view of God by how His people act. Abram’s God-Centered Response • Prioritized peace over possession – “Let there be no quarreling between you and me… for we are brothers.” – Genesis 13:8 • Trusted God’s promise rather than jockeying for advantage – Genesis 12:2-3 had guaranteed blessing; Abram behaved as though it were already secure. • Gave Lot first choice of land (Genesis 13:9) – Voluntary self-loss echoes later teaching: “In humility consider others better than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3-4 • Accepted potential personal cost because God could replenish anything surrendered – “Seek first the kingdom of God… and all these things will be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33 Why Abram’s Method Works • Diffuses tension quickly—no debate over pasture, boundaries, or hired hands. • Models trust in God’s sovereignty; the one who owns everything secures His child’s future (Psalm 24:1). • Protects witness before watching neighbors; later, the king of Salem blesses Abram’s God (Genesis 14:18-20). • Invites divine confirmation; after Lot’s departure, God reiterates and expands the promise (Genesis 13:14-17). Practical Steps for Us Today 1. Identify the real issue • Is it space, recognition, schedule, finances? Name it clearly (Proverbs 4:7). 2. Affirm the relationship first • “We are brothers” sets tone before tackling logistics (Ephesians 4:2-3). 3. Choose generosity over grasping • Offer the larger share, kinder schedule, or quieter voice; “Why not rather be wronged?” – 1 Corinthians 6:7. 4. Trust God to balance the scales • Romans 12:19 reminds us God repays; we don’t need to. 5. Act swiftly but calmly • Delay allows bitterness to germinate (Hebrews 12:15). Abram spoke up early. 6. Keep the watching world in view • Jesus: “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” – John 13:35. Living It Out at Home, Church, Work • Household budgets: one spouse yields a preference, confident God meets needs. • Ministry roles: volunteer steps aside so another can serve, believing Christ sees hidden labor (Matthew 6:4). • Workplace friction: believer relinquishes credit, trusts the Lord of promotion (Psalm 75:6-7). • Social media debates: disengage rather than inflame, pursuing peace (Romans 14:19). Scripture to Remember • “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9 • “If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18 • “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder… But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy.” – James 3:16-17 When God’s people, like Abram, surrender their rights and trust His promises, conflicts dissolve, testimony shines, and the Lord Himself guarantees the best outcome. |
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