Lot's motive was selfish ambition, the way things appeared and seemed, rather than selflessness and Gods's perspective. It all came to 'bite' for Lot later. In letting Lot choose, Abrams lost his cousin's close fellowship and eventually family in the process, but gained Gods's favour and blessing.
Abram's sense of justice, leadership, courage and even feistiness show, but especially his humility and service to God are evident in ch 14.
God's word to Abrams in 15:1 are exactly related to Abram's situation, as he faces attack and apparent cost for his choices. God promises to be his shield and very great reward.
In apparently impossible circumstances, God promises to give Abrams hope and a means of fulfilling His promises. It was credited to him as righteousness because he believed. The lesson is that in the gospel, we must also believe Gods's word unwaveringly and His promises.
Abram's grounds for belief were God's Name and His faithfulness in keeping His promises. He has never failed!
Abram acted wrongly by having a son by Hagar. He showed disbelief in God's promise and ways. He placed a higher importance on himself and his knowledge. Sarai should not have blamed Abram though. He should have recognised both their sin in disbelief and going their own way.
The covenant entailed promise from God and responsibility for Abraham. He was promised fruitfulness, God's presence and possession. He promised to be their God. Abraham had to keep Gods's covenant also. Circumcision was the symbol of this.
Gods's dealings with Hagar illustrate His grace and willingness to listen to Abraham's request. He chooses to be shaped by our requests, rather than being bound by them. This shows Gods's grace and graciousness in dealing with us as Christians.
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