Daily Bible Readings YLT January 7th

Note the way in which Abram deals with the warring which has broken out between the keepers of his cattle and those of Lot because there is not enough land for both these herds which are very large! He graciously pleads not to war with Lot because they are men - brethren. He courteously offers Lot the choice of the land before them, even though Abram is the elder and would therefore have the right to choose first. He asks with a manner of peace, desiring peace, "Is not all the land before thee? Be parted, I pray thee, from me". Both parties have to desire peace to make peace. Here Abram desires to have peace and puts forth a proposal which will make for peace with Lot because the offer is generous and open. What we might learn in areas of conflict to find a resolution that would meet the needs or wants of both parties!There is also conflict in Chapter 14. Lot is taken prisoner and Abram is told. He gathers his trained servants and pursues the conquering army and attacks at night, rescuing Lot and all the substance which had been taken with him from the city of Sodom where he had been living. The evidence of Abram's desire for peace with Lot is his continuing commitment to him and his wellbeing. When peace is made between peoples and nations it is usual that the enmity continues. But if we had an attitude of following through the peace with helping the ones who have been at enmity with us, the peace might be true and lasting. Jesus says, when you are struck on the left cheek, turn the right cheek also. Meaning that resisting or fighting back causes an escalation of violence - our attitude must be peace at all costs to ourselves that the blessings of peace should continue.How important it is also, that having had success in restoring rightful order, and peace, we should not be proud and triumphalist. Melchizedek, the King of Salem [peace], comes before the King of Sodom, to meet Abram and reminds him that God is his help in times of trouble. Thus Abram is prepared by this intervention to meet the King of Sodom and not to receive anything from his hand that might suggest that it was man and not God who is the source of blessing.