Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

The Non-aggression Pact
Read Genesis 21:22-34

Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there he called upon the name of the LORD, the Eternal God. Genesis 21:33

The relationship between Abraham and Abimelech began with an unhappy episode in which Abraham told a half-truth (Chapter 20). Abimelech was a non-Israelite ‘outsider’ who did not share a common faith with Abraham. But he could see that God had blessed Abraham in all observable circumstances of life. Now the two of them met again over a dispute on an indispensable resource that was precious in their part of the world: water. All that Abimelech asked for was loyalty to him and his people in return for the kindness he had shown Abraham.

The meeting concluded with a non-aggression pact in which Abimelech conceded the well (source of water supply) to Abraham, accepting seven lambs as a sort of public witness. Abraham’s response to this apparently secular event of reconciliation over a water crisis was an act of worship to his God.

He had learnt not to separate his sacred and secular work. He planted a tamarisk tree at Beersheba ('well of seven') as a remembrance of this successful treaty and there he worshipped God. In doing so, he acknowledged that God was behind his successful negotiation for such a favourable treaty. In this episode, Abraham found favour with God and man.

There should be no compartmentalisation in our life. Are we 'Christian' only on Sundays but 'secular' on other days? How can we stop being that way?

Our response to anything good should be worshipful gratitude to God. Let us remember the successes that God has granted us and give thanks to Him.