Divine Separationনমুনা

Get Rid Of Strife In Your Life

With a great vision from God Abraham ventured out to see the fulfillment of his promise all the while taking Lot along who was not part of God's instructions. The Bible records a famine in the land that led Abraham and his family to Egypt. Sometimes the call of God doesn't always lead us on a straight, smooth path but in the curves on the journey, we must believe God's promises are true. Over the course of time, the famine was over, and Abraham's wealth increased, and so did Lot's, but the land they occupied was not large enough to contain them both and all they owned. In our lives, we believe if we don't take care of family members, friends or just people close to us we are not "Christ-like." God specifically told Abraham to leave his family, and all that he knew was familiar so God could do something grand and new in his life. The blessings God bestowed upon Abraham were not to prosper him alone it included all the families of the earth. But initiating the journey was one he needed to start alone with God.

When we take it upon ourselves to bring others along when God did not sanction it we open the door wide to strife. The Bible records that quarreling and discord ensued between the workers of Abraham and Lot due to a lack of space. Sometimes, people come to you for help, they might be in a tight spot and need a hand to get stable, nothing is wrong with lending a helping hand, and we should be very inclined to help those we love in need. But for sharing your personal space especially when you have your own family, it's something that should never be a long-term arrangement. Nothing is wrong with protecting your family and your personal space because without a clear picture of your destiny and lack of discernment you can create a situation for strife to exist.

It would seem that while Abraham was journeying to his promise, he would have recognized how serious God's instructions were to do this on his own. Abraham confronted Lot by practically begging him to separate, to go in the other direction and he gave him the option to choose where he wanted to go. Abraham understood strife would hinder the call on his life.

Food for Thought: Do I have strife in my life?