Genesis 13:5-18
The time which Abram spent in Egypt was time lost and the riches he acquired there become a cause of worry to him. It is these which lead to his separation from Lot. Quarrels among "brethren" happen in the presence of the Canaanite inhabitants of the country (v. 7); this is particularly sad for the testimony (1 Corinthians 6:6; John 13:35). Abram allows Lot the choice of place where he will go. What a meek and unselfish spirit he shows there! Could we not imitate this each time we feel we should stand up for our rights? Lot chooses what pleases him, what attracts his worldly heart (and the plain of Jordan resembles Egypt — v. 10), whilst Abram lets the LORD decide his place (Psalms 47:4). Now God never disappoints those who trust in Him. "Our fathers . . . trusted in thee, and were not confounded (Psalms 22:4-5). Indeed the possession of the land of promise is now confirmed to Abram. God says to him, "Lift up now thine eyes," (v. 14), then "Arise, walk." (v. 17). Canaan is for us a figure of heaven which God invites us not only to contemplate but to explore by faith. And how can we walk through "the length and the breadth" of this heavenly country? It is by studying deeply and meditating on the wonders of the divine Word.