RESOLVING a FAMILY problem AMICABLY
January 5 Bible Reading: Genesis Chapters 13-15
RESOLVING a FAMILY problem AMICABLY
Today’s reading in Genesis chapter 13 gives us an interesting perspective about how a family problem was resolved amicably. The problem occurred because of a quarrel between the servants of Abraham and Lot due to their inability to live together. Jesus has taught us a spiritual principle that I believe Abraham also understood that a "…house divided against itself shall not stand" (Matt 12:25), therefore the time had come for him and Lot to separate as families. Abraham had understood the root of the problem: “the land was not able to support them that they might dwell together, for their possessions were so great that they could not dwell together” (Gen 13:6).
The steps that Abraham took to resolve this problem (Gen. 13: 8-9) were as follows:
- He took the initiative to speak directly to his nephew (taking charge of resolving the problem)
- He expressed his desire to end the quarrel immediately explaining to Lot in Gen. 13:8: “for we are brethren” (showing clear and direct communication). He must have been distinctly aware that Canaanites and Perizzites lived in their neighborhood (Gen. 13:7b) and he did not want his neighbors to know about their family quarrel.
- His suggestion was that he and Lot should separate immediately (offering a win-win solution)
- He offered the choice of the land to Lot (displaying humility). Philippians 2:3 says: “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.”
Lot chose the best land for himself, but Abraham was not troubled or sad in this matter as God had prepared for him something better (Gen. 13:14) for him. Hebrews 11:10 tell us that Abraham actually waited for a city which had foundations, whose builder and maker was God (reflecting clear life’s perspective).
Let us follow Abraham’s example in solving our personal problems as well.