8 Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen.

– Genesis 13:8 (ESV)

 

“Blood is thicker than water.” 

If you are familiar with this phrase, than you know it means, “family bonds are stronger than other relationships and circumstances.” The saying is obviously alluding to family loyalty. Loyalty by and large is seen as a positive virtue. However, in applying this phrase, the quality of virtue is defined by the character of the family. In other words, the phrase “blood is thicker than water” has a different connotation in a family of philanthropists vs. a family of criminals. While their actions are obviously different, if living true to the phrase, their core motivation is essentially the same… family first.

In a sense, Abram is living the phrase in a truly redemptive way. I’d love for you to take some time and read Genesis 13 to see if you see what I’m seeing. Abram is placing a premium on his relationship with his nephew Lot. He’s applying selflessness in a way that’s markedly different than how he acted in our study last week. It truly appears as though Abram has had a heart change. Where did this change come from? Well, remember how God’s not slow but patient? Remember how God showed up and bailed Abram out after he’d dug himself a hole in Egypt? You remember? Well, now it appears that Abram is paying it forward. God’s provision for him is moving Abram to live selflessly toward others.

If you’ve read the passage and said, “Pastor, I’m not so sure I’m seeing this passage quite the way you’re describing it,” it’s totally ok. There is so much more going on in this text than meets the eye and I cannot wait to unpack it with you!  From now 'til Sunday though, here is what we all need to know is this: God provides! Our message title this week is Echos of Provision.  Have you experienced a provision form the Lord recently? Did God provide that provision through the family of God? After all, “blood is thicker than water.”  – Selah.

Take some time to listen to the worship set to prepare your heart.

 

Love you Church,

Jerry Lingenfelter
Senior Pastor