The early verses of Genesis 13 gives the account of a strife that ensues between the herdmen of Abram cattle and the herdmen of Lot’s cattle, but what is important to note, is that Abram takes the initiative to settle the dispute. He tells Lot, that there be no strife between them or his herdemen and Lot’s. Not only does Abram take the initiative to address the disagreement but if you notice carefully, interestingly Abram addresses Lot, the son of his brother, Haran, not as his nephew, but as his brother. In other words, he treats Lot as his own brother.
Points to ponder:
Jesus Christ took the initiative to love us (1 John 4:19) and reconcile us with God, the Father. Just as Abram addresses Lot as his brother, Jesus Christ, after his resurrection addressed his disciples as his brethren (Matthew 28:10). As followers of Jesus Christ, we are expected to do the same, to take the initiative to reconcile and restore relationships. Are you/I taking the initiative?
Genesis 13:6-8 (KJV)
6 And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.
7 And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram’s cattle and the herdmen of Lot’s cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land.
8 And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren.
