Choices

by Faye Schmidt

Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.

The two men parted company: Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom (Genesis 13:11b,12).

Read Genesis 13:1–18

The land in which the separation of Abram and Lot occurred was already occupied by other people. This was not unoccupied territory, with the Canaanites and Perizzites in residence with their own property, herds and flocks. Abram and Lot were not only competing with each other for space but also in the midst of the original occupiers.

The recording of the separation of Abram and his nephew Lot tells us much about their character. In verse 9 of our text, Abram gave Lot the authority to make the first choice of where he would settle with his herds, flocks and family. Abram did not need to do this. After all, he is the elder, the senior adult. Also, the Lord had spoken to him; he was the one who was following the word of the Lord.

How did Lot make use of such generosity?

First, we note that he based his decision on what he saw – the outward appearance of the scene. We read that ‘Lot chose for himself … ’. This was not a decision made for the betterment of others or with protection and safety for his herds, flocks and people in mind. Lot saw ease, comfort and wellbeing in the lushness of the environment and the attraction of the cities. Lot went to the cities – not the plains to rest among his herds.

It was Abram who dwelt on the plains, away from the temptations attractiveness and excitement could offer.

In the choices we make in our lives, are we making them to please ourselves or to please God? Are we looking for an easy, comfortable way out, or do we focus on the promises of God through his Son that we are led not into temptation but delivered from evil to the glory of God? Like Abram gave the choice to Lot, God gives us the opportunity to choose – to follow him, listen to him, serve him and receive his blessings into eternity through his grace.

Dear Lord, help me to choose the way, truth and life that comes through the gift of faith in you and your saving grace. Amen.

Faye Schmidt continues her diaconal calling through governance, having served on the Vic–Tas District Church Board, the General Church Board and currently as chair of her congregation, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Adelaide. Having lived and worked in many locations within Australia and overseas, Faye has a heart for the stranger and the newcomer and for being open to new ideas, learning from others and responding to needs.

• Click here to read previous devotions.
• We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
• Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.