Today's Passage: Genesis 14

In today's chapter we see further evidence of the righteous character of Abram. In the previous chapter Abram had given Lot the choice of what lands to take as they needed to separate. Note that while Lot occupied the Jordan valley, he apparently did not "own" it in the same way as the promise given to Abram for the lands he trod on. Lot soon became swept up in the wars of the kings of the surrounding regions.  As a result he and his goods are taken captive by the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah as they fled to the hills (as if he was nothing more than a source of supply)!

When Abram finds out his brother is in trouble, he does not see it as just consequence for Lot's choice. He brings his own resources and comes and defeats the enemies, freeing his brother. Note his resources were not great in human terms (only 318 men), but were blessed by the Heavenly Father. This victory brought glory to God, and here we see Abram setting the example of worship through tithe to Melchizedek king of Salem, a priest of the Most High.

It is also evident that Abram wants his testimony of God's greatness to be truly the Lord so that no man can boast. He instructs the king of Sodom that he will take none of the spoils, "lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich’— " (verse 23).

It is interesting that God showed mercy to Lot through Abram. We are to be vessels of mercy, moving according to His Spirit and not according to our own human sense of justice in every situation. May He give you that wisdom today to act as His arm of mercy extended.