Bearing Others’ Burdens: Abraham fights for Lot

Do you know someone who brings trouble upon himself or herself? In the end, others have to come to their rescue and bail them out. Dealing with these individuals can be draining, even after you have warned them and they rejected good counsel. However, as Christians, we have to remain willing to help others even when they make unwise decisions. Abraham had to go and fight for Lot after he made the bad choice to live in Sodom.

And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan. Gen 14:14 (KJV)

Lot was taken captive and Abraham had to gather a force to free him. There are individuals in our lives that may seem to go through the same things over  and  over  again. Yet,  God  has allowed it so that we can be demonstrators of His love and mercy.

Paul reminded the Galatians that they were  to do good unto all men. In addition, special consideration was to be given to those who are believers (Galatians 6:10). Do not hold back bearing others’ burdens, even if they are a burden to themselves. In doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ.

Prayer of the Week:

“I remember all that Christ did for me on today. I thank you he bore my transgressions and sins. On this day, I ask that you help me to bear others’ burdens in light of your goodness towards me. Amen”

Letting Go: Abraham pleads for Ishmael

Image by christianbiblereference.org

Friends, family, and acquaintances are important to our lives. We live in a world where we must interact and be interdependent upon others for love, support, and relationship. However, some individuals in our lives may prove to be useful only at certain times in our lives. It does not mean that there is a problem; however, God may want to bring others into our lives for continual growth and success in Him.

Abraham had to learn the reality of this truth. Because God’s promise was upon Sarah and Isaac, he would eventually have to let go of Ishmael that God’s promises to him would be established. However, Abraham protested.

And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee! Gen 17:18 (KJV)

Abraham loved Ishmael, but God’s covenant would be with Isaac. Abraham pleaded with God for Ishmael. On today, what people are in your life that you know that they will not be able to be with you always? Are you willing to let them go {not because you hate them or any problem exists} for the sake of continual growth and success in Christ?

They may be longtime friends and family members. It does not mean that there is no communication and fellowship, but their influence in your life has to be limited that God may bring to you all that He has for you. This may be a difficult task, but in the end, everyone will prosper. Later on, in this story, discover that God blessed Ishmael, though he had to leave his father.

Prayer of the Week:

 “I know that I can trust you God, you know what is best for me and who is good for me. Help me to do what is necessary to please you. Amen.”

Separated for the Set-up

Separation is a necessary part of life. Many fight against it, even to their own hurt. Some stay in destructive relationships for fear of being alone. Others will not separate because of the “comfort” of familiarity. However, as a Christian, the challenge to separate from people, places, and things (in order to progress) is there.

Abraham had to make the decision to separate from Lot. In Volume I, we discussed how Abraham and Lot entered into conflict. Rather than stay in a situation where this could reoccur, Abraham gave Lot his pick of the land for peaceful separation.

And the Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. Gen 13:14-15 (KJV)

After the separation, God appears to Abraham and gives him a blessing of promise. We discover that his separation was a set-up to receive from God. On today, what people, places, and things do you need to give up and separate yourself from? Abraham was willing to separate from Lot and he received a blessing. Who knows? Some things you may desire of God may be released if you separate from known negative influences. Make the necessary changes and separations; it will set you up for a blessing.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, I thank you that your thoughts for me are for good. Give me the strength to do what is necessary to receive all that you have for me. Thank you now for all things that will come for my benefit. Amen.” 

Handling Conflicts

Do you know someone who loves controversy and conflict? Regardless of the situation, there is a problem. They do not want peace, but conflict. As Christians we are instructed to live in peace with all men according to our best efforts. Yet, when we are offended and treated unjustly, do we still want peace or seek for personal vindication.

Abraham faced conflict with Lot (his nephew); there servants were at odds. However, we discover that Abraham sought for peace; he did not perpetuate the problem.

And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren. Gen 13:8 (KJV)

Since Abraham was the elder in this situation, he could have handled the conflict in a totalitarian manner. However, he recognized that Lot was family and there was a peaceable solution.

As a Christian, how do you handle conflicts at home and those that happen at church? You must understand that conflicts will arise, especially in the church. Yet, remember that they are your brothers and sisters in Christ. You should seek for peace and not selfish vindication.

In the end, all things must be done to honor Christ who has saved you. Your encounters in the church should not contribute to the disunity or disharmony of the fellowship.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, grant me grace, when conflicts arise. Help me to honor you as I face conflicts. Let your will always be done. Amen.”