Last time, we saw growing tension between the groups of Abram and Lot. There was disagreement between the herdsmen of both parties regarding the pastureland for their increasing flocks. Something had to be done before things got any worse.
The obvious thing to do was to split up (Genesis 13:8-9). Abram then unselfishly offered a solution to Lot, he could choose for himself out of all the land before them. Lot picked all of the plain of Jordan (Genesis 13:10-11) and Abram stayed where he was (Genesis 13:11-12).
This week, we will continue on as we begin Genesis 14. As I mentioned, Abram and his family group had now separated from Lot and his. While Abram remained in Canaan, Lot moved on to the cities of the plain, which included Sodom.
Though at first it might appear that Abram gave up the best pasture land, God gave Canaan to him and all of his descendants forever. But this wasn't all! God invited Abram to check out the land so that he could see this for himself (Genesis 13:14-17).
Yes, from his point of view, Lot thought the plain of Jordan looked like a pretty good choice. It seemed rich and lush, just what he was looking for. But he saw it through "worldly" eyes. And as he would soon discover, the grass isn't always greener on the other side.
Before we start our study, I always like to encourage you all to read through the material beforehand. It always helps to begin with a good grasp of what we will be talking about. And, it will make it more meaningful, as well!
Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen.
Now this week's study:
As chapter 14 opens, there is a war between four confederate kings, and the five kings of Canaan. The kings of Canaan are defeated, including a considerable part of the armies belonging to the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 14:1-10). Their cities were then plundered, and Lot, his family, and everything they owned were carried off (Genesis 14:11-12).
The simple fact that Lot was living in Sodom was enough to draw Abram into the conflict. Abram was living in Hebron at that time (Genesis 13:18), but he had a covenant with Mamre the Amorite and his brothers, Eschol and Aner (Genesis 14:13).
As it would turn out, this worked to Abram's advantage. As part of this covenant, these Amorites, with whom he had been living, had to fight alongside him.
1.) Abram eventually got word of what happened to his nephew, Lot. How did he find out? What did he do after that? (Genesis 14:13-14).
2.) Because Abram's force was much smaller in number they had to come up with a good plan of attack. What did Abram and his men do? How did his plan work out? (Genesis 14:15-16).
3.) Abram, while returning home with his spoils of war, was met by the king of Sodom at the Valley of Shaveh or, the King's Valley. While there, someone makes a sudden appearance. Who was this person? What did he bring? And what symbolic reference does it refer to? (Genesis 14:17-18).
4.) Melchizedek did something to Abram, and Abram did something in return. What was it that each did? (Genesis 14:19-20).
5.) Now, turning back to the king of Sodom, he makes an offer to Abram. What was the offer? (Genesis 14:21).
6.) However Abram, knew that he was destined for bigger and better things through God's help. What did Abram tell the king of Sodom he had done? Why did Abram do it? (Genesis 14:22-23).
7.) Even though Abram did not want any of the material things he had captured, he did agree to a few things from the king. What were they?
This concludes our bible study for this week. Next time we will look at Genesis, chapter 15, where we will discuss God's covenant with Abram. Remember to read ahead, I promise you won't regret it!
Until then, have a blessed and safe weekend!
Scripture: Proverbs 28:20; Hebrews 11:1; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Deuteronomy 7:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13
Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen.
May you be generously blessed!
Bibi
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