The NIV 365 Day Devotional

Lot: A Careless Choice

Abraham and his nephew, Lot, were wealthy and had vast herds of sheep and cattle. But because the land was not able to support them both, and their herdsmen were quarreling with each other, they decided to go separate ways. Even though Abraham was older and had the right to make first choice, he allowed Lot to choose which part of the country to settle.

Lot could have done a number of things in response to Abraham’s generous offer. He could have deferred to Abraham out of respect. He could have asked Abraham’s advice. He could have taken time to think it over, or consult with God. Instead, he impulsively chose the fertile plains of the Jordan River for himself (13:11) and sealed his fate. By pitching his tents near Sodom, Lot came into contact with more trouble and more evil than he was prepared to handle. He eventually fell captive to the king of Elam, and Abraham had to go and rescue him.

Many times we will try to choose our life direction on our own. We all have the same tendency to go for the quick fix, the first thing that looks good, without taking time to consider our motives, our past history, and the potential consequences. Lot’s decision led him into many battles and situations that brought him much unnecessary sorrow. Allowing God to direct his choice would have been much wiser. But Lot had not learned to trust God as Abraham had. His human nature overcame his spiritual desire to believe in God’s loving direction.

Our downfall comes when we fail to draw strength and wisdom from God and consult him when making choices. He wants to be there for us, to guide and direct us — if we will only let him.

PRAYER:

Lord, help me each day to choose to turn my life and will over to you.

Taken from the NIV Recovery Devotional Bible.