Reading

• Gen. 12:1-14:17, 21-24, 18-20

Devotional

When GOD told Abram to leave his homeland, his nephew Lot went with him. After returning from Egypt, Abram’s herdsmen and Lot’s herdsmen began to argue because the land was unable to support both of their livestock (Gen. 13:6). GOD had blessed them both mightily, quite possibly as a reward for their obedience in leaving Ur. It was time to split up.

So Abram said to Lot, “Please let there be no strife between you and me, and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen; for we are brethren. Is not the whole land before you? Please separate from me. If you take the left, then I will go to the right; or, if you go to the right, then I will go to the left.”
(Gen. 13:8-9)

Abram gave Lot first choice.

And Lot lifted his eyes and saw all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere (before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah) like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt as you go toward Zoar.
(Gen. 13:10)

What Lot saw was excellent-looking pasture lands and convenient access to the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, so he chose to live there. That decision would prove very costly for him. The people of Sodom and Gomorrah were exceedingly wicked (Gen. 13:13). During his stay there:

• He was taken prisoner by kings from other cities (Gen. 13:12).
• His house was attacked while angels were staying with him (Gen. 19:1-11).
• He lost his sons-in-law when the cities were destroyed (Gen. 19:14).
• His wife was turned into salt as she looked behind while fleeing the cities (Gen. 19:26).

Something may look very good and attractive at first glance, but it can have very bad consequences.  It is critical that we ask GOD to help us make wise decisions so that we don’t regret it later. While GOD will forgive us when we sin against Him, our actions still have consequences and GOD allows us to live with those consequences, which can be very sorrowful.

In addition to asking GOD for wisdom, we should also:

• Do your research to make sure we have all the facts to help us make the best choice.
• Ask an older, wise person for their advice and take time to consider what they tell you.
• Don’t rush into things. Whenever possible, take your time when making important decisions. “Sleep on it.”