Three things are addressed in this passage: the end of a turmoil with the area kings in which Abram had to do battle to save Lot and his family, the giving of a tithe to Melchizedek in honor of God’s blessings, and the explanation of God’s timing in Abram’s life with additional prophetic indicators for his future.
God favored Abram and his servants as they went to battle to save Lot’s family. The battle was over and God’s man had been victorious. As they returned from the battle, Melchizedek came out to meet them, offering bread and wine–possibly a type and shadow of the lord’s supper that would come hundreds of years later. Melchizedek was definitely a type of the priesthood of Jesus Christ, as discussed later in the book of Hebrews. He blessed Abram and blessed the “God Most High (v. 19).”
At this point, Abram gave Melchizedek a tithe of all. That simple phrase does not seem to be especially telling of the details and specifics this first recorded event of tithing. However, it is interesting to note that Abram did this as if it was a very natural reaction to the goodness of God. It is funny to me how Christians today chafe against the idea of tithing. “It’s an Old Testament principle, part of the law. We now live under grace. Tithing does not apply.” However, as we see here, tithing preceded the law by several generations, and was a natural response to God’s favor. Have you received God’s favor lately? Then tithing should seem like the minimum we would want to give God in recognition of His mighty blessings. Pay tithe and give offerings in honor of our King. Do not view the practice as an obligation or a tax, but rather as a privilege!
Abram then gave all the possessions and people of Sodom back to their king, not wanting to take from him. Abram was just thankful to have his family back safe again. However, God spoke to Abram again to assure him of His promises. Abram had heard from God, had been given the great covenant promises, but still at times had doubts. Again, though, God’s timing is perfect timing. Event though we may not understand why gratification is delayed, God knows exactly what we need and exactly when we need His blessings. God came down to Abram and sealed the covenant in the blood of sacrifices by walking between the sacrifices with a smoking oven and a burning torch. He even foretold of the future of Israel in bondage and their eventual deliverance. God expanded the Abrahamic covenant and made Himself clear to Abram. He let Him know that His timing was perfect, and His blessing was worth waiting for. Let that be your lesson today. Even though you may not see the promise fulfilled yet, God’s promises are true. You can depend on Him!
Devoted To You 