January 4, 2022 - Genesis 13-15

Abram and Sarai had been in Egypt, and “Abram went up from Egypt” (13:1), that is, into Canaan. Abram and his nephew, Lot, had such possessions that the land directly before them could not hold all their animals. “Lot lifted up his eyes and saw that the Jordan Valley was well-watered . . . So Lot chose for himself all the Jordan Valley, and Abram settled in the land of Canaan” (13:10-12).

Lot got the choice piece of real estate. Much can be said about Lot, Sodom and Gomorrah, and the rescue of Lot. Here’s the thing, though. Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High, blessed Abram. And wherever Abram settled – land well-watered or dry desert – God’s covenant promises went with him! God reassured Abram: “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great” (15:1). Abram and Sarai began to doubt God’s faithfulness to give them a child but they should not have. We should not doubt him. God does what he promises. No child for the aging couple, yet, but make no mistake, the child of promise will be given! God’s word is good!

Lord, be thy word my rule,

in it may I rejoice;

thy glory be my aim,

thy holy will my choice;

Thy promises my hope,

thy providence my guard,

thine arm my strong support,

thyself my great reward. --Christopher Wordsworth (1875)