Genesis 13

Monday, January 15, 2007, 9:35:25 AM

After reading this text; I am struck mostly by verses 8-9. I cannot help but be impressed by Abraham's ability to peacefully step into conflict. Abram steps into the conflict to arrive at peace, not to win. Abram doesn't seek to gain from the conflict or to win the best land, but he seeks unity. I am amazed by how much he is willing to give up his own needs and desires. His desire is unity between him and his nephew Lot.In verse 8, he say, "This arguing has got to stop." What an amazing thing for a man to do-- he did not let his emotions or his anger controll him. He simply saw the heart of the matter and adressed it. Last night, I got into an argument with my brother. We were arguing over something very significant . . . what to have for dinner. My brother was not excited about the Chinese takeout that we were going to have for dinner. In my heart, I so desired unity, but I was unwilling to be as humble and as unemotional as Abram was in this passage. I instead engaged in the conflict . . . letting my brother know that I think that he is a picky eater. Processing that now . . . what a lousy way to try to dissipate the conflict. What good did that comment have? None. I was seeking my own gain. I was unwilling to give up what I wanted . . . "the good land". What a lesson I can learn from Abram here. . . resolve the conflict and be willing to let go of your own desires. Don't seek selfish gain.Time to ask for my brother's forgiveness . . .