Repeated words:
(I) "Look" v.14, 10
v.14 13:14 After Lot had departed, the LORD said to Abram, “Look from the place where you stand to the north, south, east, and west
"Look" Earlier Lot “looked up” (v. 10), but here Abram is told by God to do so. The repetition of the expression (Heb “lift up the eyes”) here underscores how the LORD will have the last word and actually do for Abram what Abram did for Lot—give him the land. It seems to be one of the ways that God rewards faith.
Reflection: God reiterated his promises to Abram that the land was given to him 12:6, including the land that Abram allowed Lot to have 13:15. We dont need to worry or fight for ourselves. God knows what blessings belong to us.
(II)went to war v.2, 8 joined forces v.3 defeated/conquered v.5,7, attacked v.7, fought against v.9
14:1-11 Simplified versions of the narrative: The 4 kings dominated the region. The 5 kings (including the king of Sodom) tried to rebelled but not succeed. Lot and others were taken by the 4 kings.
14:12-16 Abram was notified and he pursued the 5 kings and defeated them. Lot was saved.
Reflection: Abram was just an individual (with 318 trained men) and he was able to fought against the 4 kings! The 5 kings tried to rebel against the 4 kings, but was unsuccessful. Abram defeated the 4 kings successfully! Note in v.15
Then, during the night, Abram divided his forces against them and defeated them
With that small group of people Abram even divided his men. God promised him that he will be blessed (12:1-3) and indeed it is true. Exercise your faith and see that God's word will not change and His promises give to us will not change.
Audrey
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