The Three P’s: Peace, Possessions, and Preferences
Genesis 13:8–9 (NASB95)
8So Abram said to Lot, “Please let there be no strife between you and me, nor between my herdsmen and your herdsmen, for we are brothers. 9“Is not the whole land before you? Please separate from me; if to the left, then I will go to the right; or if to the right, then I will go to the left.”
Abram faced conflict with Lot as their herdsmen quarreled over limited resources. Abram chose to address Lot as "brother," highlighting their family bond. He valued peace above personal rights. Abram could have claimed authority as the elder and the one who led Lot out of Ur. Instead, he sought reconciliation. He initiated the conversation, acknowledged the problem, and offered a solution that preserved unity.
Abram’s question, "Is not the whole land before you?" shows his confidence in God’s promise. Canaanites still occupied the land, but Abram spoke as if he had the right to distribute it. He trusted God’s word more than his current circumstances. Abram held possessions loosely because he believed God would provide. His security rested in God’s faithfulness, not in material control. Notice the pendulum effect in Abram’s life. In the previous narrative, he doubted if God could keep him safe in Egypt. But here we see Abram trusting in what God has promised him.
Abram gave Lot the first choice of land. The language of "left and right" signaled a decision. Abram accepted whatever Lot rejected. He put Lot’s preferences ahead of his own. This act of selflessness revealed Abram’s faith in God’s provision. He did not fear losing out. He believed God would honor His promise regardless of Lot’s choice.
Conflicts often arise over resources, preferences, and personal rights. Abram’s example calls believers to choose peace over being right, to hold possessions with open hands, and to put others’ preferences ahead of their own. When the church trusts God’s promises, it can act generously and selflessly. Such faith reduces conflict and strengthens witness. God honors those who seek peace, trust His provision, and prefer others in love.