Verse: Genesis 13:7
Theme: The Test of Prosperity and the Call to Peaceful Separation
And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram’s cattle and the herdmen of Lot’s cattle and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land
— Genesis 13:7, King James Version (KJV)
So quarrels broke out between the men who took care of Abram’s animals and those who took care of Lot’s animals At that time the Canaanites and the Perizzites were living in the land
— Genesis 13:7, Good News Translation (GNT)
And there was a quarrel between the herders of Abram’s livestock and the herders of Lot’s livestock Now the Canaanites and the Perizzites were living in the land at that time
— Genesis 13:7, New American Standard Bible (NASB)
And quarreling arose between Abram’s herders and Lot’s The Canaanites and Perizzites were also living in the land at the time
— Genesis 13:7, New International Version (NIV)
Meaning of Genesis 13:7
Genesis 13:7 presents a crucial turning point in the story of Abram and Lot. Both men had grown prosperous, and their wealth had multiplied to the point where the land could no longer support both of their households. This prosperity created conflict, and strife broke out among their herdsmen. The tension between their respective workers was a symptom of something deeper: the challenge of managing blessings with integrity and foresight.
This verse reminds us that conflict often arises not in times of lack but in times of abundance. Abram and Lot were blessed, yet their blessings brought stress and tension. The mention of the Canaanites and Perizzites dwelling in the land is not incidental—it highlights the visibility of their conflict in a land that was already being watched. As the chosen representative of God’s promise, Abram’s conduct was a testimony not only before Lot but also before the watching pagan nations.
This verse sets the stage for a powerful lesson: that godly wisdom often requires peaceful separation rather than stubborn unity. Abram would go on to offer Lot the first choice of land, revealing his character and trust in God’s provision.
Popular Words of Wisdom from Genesis 13:7
Prosperity tests character more than poverty ever will. What we do with abundance reveals the roots of our faith.
— Dr. Tony Evans, Pastor and President of The Urban Alternative
The mark of true spiritual maturity is the ability to step back from conflict for the sake of peace and witness.
— Joyce Meyer, Christian Author and Conference Speaker
When you are growing, be careful not to let your growth cause division. Spiritual wisdom knows when to step aside so God can step in.
— Rick Warren, Author of “The Purpose Driven Life”
We cannot afford to let conflict among us weaken our witness before the world. Abram knew the land was watching.
— Francis Chan, Evangelist and Church Planter
Sometimes the blessing you fight to keep is the very thing God wants you to release for the sake of unity and purpose.
— Bishop T.D. Jakes, Founder of The Potter’s House
Explaining the Context of Genesis 13:7
Genesis 13 follows the journey of Abram and Lot as they return from Egypt, where Abram had temporarily dwelt due to famine. After their return to Canaan, their flocks, herds, and possessions had grown significantly. However, the physical blessing also brought a logistical problem—there simply was not enough space to sustain both households peacefully.
The herdsmen of Abram and Lot began to argue. These were not trivial disagreements. In an agricultural society, territory and resources such as water, pasture, and movement space were critical. Their strife risked not only disrupting family bonds but also bringing shame to their witness before the Canaanites and Perizzites, who likely observed this family and their God with curiosity.
Genesis 13:7 teaches that growth, if not stewarded wisely, can lead to unnecessary conflict. And yet, it also sets the tone for what will follow—a gracious and humble decision by Abram to prioritize peace over possession.
Explaining the Key Parts of Genesis 13:7
“And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram’s cattle and the herdmen of Lot’s cattle”
This opening line communicates open conflict. The herdsmen, the working representatives of Abram and Lot, were in direct opposition over resources. This was not a theological argument, but a physical one—about land, food, and space. It reveals how even practical matters, if left unresolved, can tear apart families.
“And the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land”
This statement provides a broader lens. These two people were indigenous to the land, and their presence was a reminder that the land was not empty nor isolated. Conflict among God’s people would reflect on God’s reputation. Abram had been called to be a blessing to the nations, and here was a moment where public discord could compromise that call. It is a reminder that our conflicts are never just private—they have public spiritual consequences.
Lessons to Learn from Genesis 13:7
1. Blessings Can Become Burdens Without Wisdom
Abram and Lot were both blessed, yet those blessings created stress. Prosperity is not automatically peaceful. Without proper stewardship and godly wisdom, even good things can bring division.
2. Not All Conflict Is Worth Fighting
The herdsmen may have seen only livestock. Abram saw a legacy. He chose to pursue peace over proving a point. We learn that maturity often means giving up our rights for the sake of righteousness.
3. Our Witness Matters in Times of Disagreement
The presence of the Canaanites and Perizzites means that how we handle internal disputes reflects on our faith externally. We must always be aware that the world is watching not only our victories but also our conflicts.
4. Humility Opens the Door to Greater Blessings
Abram will soon offer Lot the first choice of land. His humility would later be honored by God. Choosing humility and peace does not diminish our future; it protects and multiplies it.
5. Conflict Should Drive Us to Clarity, Not Chaos
The strife revealed that something needed to change. Rather than letting it fester, Abram addressed the issue. Likewise, conflict should be a tool that drives us to seek clarity, alignment, and God’s purpose, not endless fighting.
Related Bible Verses
Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God
— Matthew 5:9, King James Version (KJV)
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves
— Philippians 2:3, King James Version (KJV)
If it be possible as much as lieth in you live peaceably with all men
— Romans 12:18, King James Version (KJV)
Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone
— Romans 12:18, New Living Translation (NLT)
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water therefore leave off contention before it be meddled with
— Proverbs 17:14, King James Version (KJV)
How This Verse Points to Christ
Genesis 13:7 reminds us of Jesus’ call to unity among His followers. In John 17, Christ prays for His people to be one so that the world would believe. Just as Abram chose peace over position, Jesus also chose to reconcile humanity through His humility.
The conflict in this passage prefigures the tension we often experience in communities, churches, and families today. Jesus, like Abram, willingly gave up His rights for the sake of others. He made peace through the blood of His cross, as Colossians 1:20 says. This same attitude is what followers of Christ are called to carry into every relational tension.
In the New Testament, we see that early believers were also called to handle disputes with grace and humility (see Acts 6 and Acts 15). Genesis 13:7 is a powerful Old Testament example of how those blessed by God must walk with wisdom in how they handle growth and disagreement.
Closing Reflection
Genesis 13:7 is more than just a record of a family quarrel. It is a mirror held up to every believer who has ever experienced growth, tension, or the challenge of keeping unity. The conflict between Abram’s and Lot’s herdsmen shows how blessings, if not managed with grace, can become battlegrounds.
But the verse also points to something greater—the possibility of peace through wise leadership. Abram would go on to show that separation, when done with humility and purpose, can preserve legacy and deepen trust in God.
In your life, whether you are experiencing growth, division, or the pressures of managing what you have been given, let Genesis 13:7 guide you. Let it remind you that your relationships matter, your testimony matters, and peace is always worth pursuing.
Say This Prayer
Lord God
Thank You for the blessings You have placed in my life. I know that even good things can cause tension if I am not led by Your Spirit. Teach me to walk in humility and to value peace above pride.
Help me manage conflict with wisdom. Let me never forget that my witness before others matters. Just like Abram, I want to be a person of peace even in the face of division.
Strengthen my relationships and protect the unity in my family, church, and community. Show me when to step back, when to speak up, and when to simply trust You to lead.
In Jesus’ name, I pray
Amen.