There are some things about the Bible that might not stand out to us as much, given that we live in completely different circumstances. For instance, it might not seem profound to us that an uncle would give his nephew first choice of grazing lands. But in the patriarchal ancient world, this was very different than the norm.

Further, we are insulated from the realities of survival, due to all our modern conveniences. So, we might not notice the significance in this arrangement between Abraham and Lot. This part of the world was (and is) arid, and overgrazing was potentially a big problem. The land could only sustain so much, and Abraham and Lot had found that point.

They were apparently standing in a high place, when Lot “beheld all the plain of Jordan.” Imagine how it must have looked set against the arid land. Here is a river, surrounded by green, cutting through a deep valley. It looked like a place an ancient nomad could thrive. A steady supply of water and plenty of vegetation. The best choice.

Abraham let his nephew choose first and pick the best. What gave Abraham the inner security to be able to do this?

Faith. Abraham believed in God’s plans for him. He was able to trust in that, despite how things appeared in the moment.

Do you trust God’s plans for you?