CHOICES AND CONSEQUENCES

Chapter 13 of the Book of Genesis provides a perfect example of how our choices define our destiny. It tells the story of two men, Abraham and Lot, who were both believers but had very different outcomes.

Abraham, a man of faith, left his homeland of Ur and ventured into the unknown because he trusted God’s promises. He focused on the spiritual, knowing that where God leads, blessings follow. And we see that God rewarded Abraham’s faithfulness, making him the father of many nations. Abraham’s life was marked by peace, prosperity, and God’s favor.

Then we have Lot. Lot saw the fertile plains of Sodom and Gomorrah and thought, “This is where I can make a good life for myself.” He chose the material over the spiritual. Eventually, Lot had to be forced out of Sodom just before its destruction, leaving behind a life marked by turmoil and loss.

Our choices have consequences. Abraham chose to prioritize his relationship with God, and he was blessed beyond measure. Lot chose to prioritize worldly gain, and he suffered great loss. It’s a simple lesson, but staying focused on it and faithfully living it out can be challenging.

Every day, we make hundreds of choices, and each one has the potential to move us closer to God or further away from Him. How are we spending our time? Are we dedicating time to reading the Bible, praying, and seeking God’s guidance, or are we letting distractions take over? In our work and personal relationships, are we acting with integrity, kindness, and love, reflecting God’s character? Or are we compromising our values for temporary gain?

Friends, just like Abraham, let’s choose the path that leads to God’s promises, even if it seems less appealing at first glance. God’s path might not always be the easiest, but it’s the one that leads to true peace, joy, and fulfillment.

As Lord Jesus reminds us “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). Let us choose to follow God, seek His will in all we do, and trust Him with our future. Because when we do, we will experience His favor, His blessings, and His incredible plan for our lives.

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
June 22, 2024