A Good Reputation

At that time Abimelech, accompanied by Phicol the commander of the army, said to Abraham, "God is with you in everything you do. Swear to me by God here and now, that you will not break an agreement with me or with my children and descendants. As I have been loyal to you, so you will be loyal to me and to the country where you are a foreign resident." And Abraham said, "I swear it." But Abraham complained to Abimelech about the water that Abimelech's servants had seized. Genesis 21:22-24

Abraham's household, by this time, was large and probably a threat. However, Abraham endeavoured to live honourably. Abimelech also endeavoured to live honourable yet his servants did otherwise. Abraham was right to complain. Abraham had a similar problem with Lot's shepherds, water was a big issue.

Abraham goes on the cut a covenant with Abimelech. Abimelech may never had this happen before, Abraham had, with the Lord. He was now doing things by God's book.

As we live life by God's book and follow his way we create integrity in the land. Our neighbours and communities need to see integrity lived out in the land, not behaviour like they have always known, dog eat dog.

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