Choices

The choice for Abram was about what was best for everyone; and how to keep peace in his family. Even the hired help was causing a lot of division. Abram's suggestion to part company and go separate ways was meant to salvage relationships among everyone.

For Lot, the choice was about profit and gain. Abram gave Lot the choice of direction to go and which land to claim. Lot chose that land which was, to him, the best and healthiest parcels. His motives weren't as pure as Abram's.

Life is filled with opportunities and choices. Have you ever regretted a decision you made? It is so easy to spout off the top of your head, a decision. Choosing to decide without weighing the consequences can lead to regret and pain. The saying, "Let's sleep on it," is a wise thought. How often I change my mind after having opportunity to pray about something. It is during this prayer process that I think things through thoroughly, weighing the ups and the downs.

When Abram and Lot decided to go their separate ways, Lot looked around and saw where the most promising and well-watered land existed and chose to move there. He took the best share of the land even though it meant living near Sodom. Life is filled with choices and at times our choices bear spiritual consequences.

Abram settled in Canaan and God blessed his choice. “for all the land which you see I will give you and your descendants forever.” (Genesis 13:15)

Is there a choice you are struggling with today?  Perhaps this text could help you make a good decision and become a fruitful path for you.


Genesis 13:8-12

Blessed to be a Blessing

Genesis 39:5 (NIV)
  From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph. 

Think on these words for a moment. The LORD blessed the household...because of Joseph. Joseph's integrity and love for God caused even those around him to benefit.  Much more than benefit, they prospered and thrived. Because of Joseph's positive behavior everything and everyone around him profited. The blessing of the LORD was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field. 

How did Joseph keep his faith with all he endured? His siblings rejected him and even tried to harm him. The very ones who should have died trying to keep him safe threw him away as so much
garbage. How do we keep our faith when we are rejected and hurt by those we love?

During seasons of despair, God is there for us. This is easy to say and difficult to embrace, but true. Even Jesus experienced a time of despair when His closest companions couldn't stay awake for a few hours to pray. These same loved ones rejected Him, denied His friendship and ran away!

Consider a time in your life when all seemed lost. Remember that time and bring to mind how God loved you through it. Are you still in that season of loss?  Are you still feeling the pain of rejection? Perhaps your spouse left you, or your business partner cheated you, or your best friend betrayed a confidence.

"The more challenging your day, the more of My Power I place at your disposal." - Jesus Calling (November 12)

The takeaway from today's scripture is the blessing of the LORD will be on us when we follow Him.

Genesis 39:1-10