Genesis 14 records the account of how King Chedorlaomer, the cruel ruler of Elam, allied with kings Amraphel, Arioch, and Tidal to wage war against five rebellious kings: Bera of Sodom, Birsha of Gomorrah, Shinab of Admah, Shemeber of Zeboiim, and the unnamed king of Zoar. These five kings had served Chedorlaomer for twelve years, but in the thirteenth year, they chose to rebel. In response, Chedorlaomer and his allies declared war against them.
This fierce battle took place in the valley of Siddim (the Salt Sea) during the days when Abram had settled in Canaan. Chedorlaomer and his allies defeated the five kings. The kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, while the others were overpowered. As spoils of war, Chedorlaomer’s forces seized their possessions and people—including Lot, Abram’s nephew.
A survivor escaped and informed Abram of Lot’s capture. Upon hearing this, Abram armed 318 trained men born in his household and pursued the invaders. Using guerilla tactics, he divided his forces and attacked by night. By God’s help, Abram defeated Chedorlaomer and his allies, rescuing Lot, recovering the stolen goods, and freeing the captives.
Upon Abram’s return, Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High, blessed him and declared that it was God who delivered the enemies into Abram’s hands. It was a supernatural victory.
5 Lessons to Learn
- Rebel Against Oppression: Just as the five kings rebelled against Chedorlaomer’s tyranny, you must rise against every form of satanic oppression in your life. You cannot defeat what you tolerate.
- God Sends Help: The five kings were defeated, but God sent Abram as a deliverer. No matter how powerful the opposition or how deep the defeat, God can send a helper stronger than your situation to rescue you.
- Mercy Prevails: Lot chose Sodom out of greed (Genesis 13:10–12) and ended up a prisoner of war. Though he caused his own trouble, God still showed him mercy. Whether or not your situation is your fault, God’s mercy will find you and send help.
- Victory Doesn’t Depend on Numbers: With just 318 trained men, Abram defeated an alliance of four kings. In spiritual warfare, it's not about how many enemies you face, but how powerful your God is. Trust Jehovah Sabaoth—the Lord of Hosts.
- Your Victory Will Testify: When Abram returned victorious, Melchizedek praised God on his behalf. Likewise, this year, people will witness how God fights your battles and glorify Him because of your testimony.
I declare: every evil Chedorlaomer—be it a person, problem, disease, or demonic force—waging war against your life will be neutralized and crushed in the mighty name of Jesus. Refuse defeat. You serve an indomitable God. He has made you a spiritual JUGGERNAUT. Rise up and wage war with the weapons of the Spirit. Hallelujah!