During a conflict among Canaanite kings, Abram's nephew Lot, who lived in Sodom (13:10,11), was captured as a prisoner of war. The circumstances brought Abram into the war, as he desired to rescue his nephew.

Upon hearing about Lot's captivity, Abram gathered 318 trained men from his household to begin his pursuit. He strategically attacked the party that kept Lot and succeeded in recovering him, Lot’s people, and all of Lot’s possessions. In response, Lot returned to his home in Sodom, attracting the attention of the king of Sodom, who visited Abram.

God sent his messenger Melchizedek to encourage Abram at that time. Through Melchizedek's blessing, Abram was reminded of God's presence in his life and that God himself led him to win against the kings. With this assurance, he was not intimidated when he met the king of Sodom and refused his offer of material gains. He knew that blessings came from God and trusted that God would give him abundantly according to his promise. Do you feel tired and burdened negotiating the affairs of the world? Bring your trust before our almighty God, who encourages and brings us victory.
Application: Father, all things belong to you. Please help me fight a spiritual battle each day to overcome all human thinking and trust you fully.
One Word: Victory belongs to God.