Abram settled in the land of Canaan, but Lot settled among the cities of the Jordan plain and pitched his tents next to Sodom.
Genesis 13:12 NET
Abraham (Abram) and his nephew Lot both had large flocks. They had grown so large that they could no longer share the same pastures. So, they agreed to separate, with Abraham giving Lot the first choice of the land. He could choose the fertile pastures of the Jordan. Or he could have the hilly region of Canaan.
Lot chose what appeared to him to be the best area to settle in. And he moved his flocks to the Jordan, pitching his tent next to Sodom. Meanwhile, Abraham went the other way, settling in Canaan, the land of promise.
Lot’s choice of the region around Sodom might have initially appeared to be the better choice. But, in the end, he came to regret it. Lot later moved into Sodom, married, and had a family. Lot and his family were taken captive in a war–until Abraham came to his rescue. And he lost everything but two daughters when God destroyed Sodom. Lot’s sad story ended with him living in a cave, fathering a child with each of his daughters.
Lot’s choice is one that each of us makes. As believers, will we settle in Canaan, or hang out around Sodom?
Canaan represents the promised land. It may not be as outwardly attractive as the alternative. And life there may initially be more challenging. But it is where we will encounter God.
On the other hand, Sodom represents this world and its attractions and allures. It might look appealing on the outside. But it is corrupt and facing God’s judgment.
The danger of hanging out near Sodom is twofold. It is not where God wants us to be and will hinder our growth as believers. And, like Lot, we can be drawn ever closer to Sodom. Until we find ourselves settled down in Sodom, completely separated from the life of God.
Don’t make the mistake Lot did. Turn your back on Sodom – leaving this world and its ways behind – and settle down in Canaan, the land of promise.
