When Blessings Bite Back

"The land could not support them while they stayed together, for their possessions were so great that they were not able to stay together."
Genesis 13:6 (NIV)

Something nobody warns you about is that success can cause just as many problems as failure.

In today’s verse, Abraham and Lot have survived the hardship of Egypt together. They've weathered storms, displacement, and uncertainty. And they made it through just fine. 

But now? God has blessed them both with flocks, herds, silver, gold, and suddenly their herdsmen are brawling in the fields. The very abundance God gave them is tearing the family apart.

There are two tests in life: adversity and prosperity. Someone said there are a hundred men that can stand adversity, but only one can stand prosperity.

Adversity drives you to your knees. Prosperity has a way of convincing you that you no longer need to be on them. Instead of worshipping with grateful hearts, you become self-reliant. 

You start protecting what you have and grasping for more. And that is exactly what happens here. 

God has blessed both of these men so abundantly that their blessings have outgrown the land, and now someone has to make a decision. 

This week, take an honest look at where prosperity might be creating pride or conflict in your life. Bring that to God. Let the blessings He gives you send you back to the altar, not away from it.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your provision. Show me where my blessings have become barriers. Show me where abundance is making me complacent or bringing division in my relationships. Bring me back to my knees before You, my God. In Your Name, Jesus, Amen.