Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Stewardship of Wealth
But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have lifted my hand to the Lord, God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth, that I would not take a thread or a sandal strap or anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich.’
This passage talks about an episode in Abram’s life, before he was made Abraham by God. Abram was pulled into a war which had nothing to do with him other than to rescue his nephew Lot, and in doing so, brought back all the possessions looted by the Kings of Shinar, Ellasar, Elam and Goiim.
Abram rightfully acknowledged that he had nothing to do with his victory and new-found wealth. He had set out with only 318 men, that too not part of any army, and led them to a victory against four armies. Abram recognised that there had to be divine intervention for such an event to take place. Therefore, as soon as the high priest received him with bread and wine, he relinquished a tenth of his winnings symbolising that everything was the Lord’s.
When the King of Sodom, one of the kings whose possessions Abram had secured, requested that only his men be spared, in return for all of the king’s wealth, Abram responded that it would be wrong of him to take any part in the loot, since all that he has, was given by God. Abram did not need anybody’s wealth to sustain himself, since God had already provided for him.
If we read this passage in conjunction with Mathew 6:24-34, it becomes clearer what God wants us to do when confronted with situations, doubts and problems like these. God has provided for our sustenance, and we need to only pursue God and His ways. We need not worry or hoard stuff from other people, for God decides who is to be apportioned how much wealth. If we need more money / food / shelter, it will be given to us.
Thought for the Day: God, not only provides for us spiritually, but takes care of our needs in our physical life – more often than not much better than we think.
Vivek Sonny Abraham , London.