21 The king of Sodom said to Abram , "Give the people to me and take the goods for yourself." 22 Abram said to the king of Sodom , "I have sworn e to the Lord God Most High , possessor of heaven and earth , 23 that I will not take a thread or a sandal thong or anything that is yours, for fear you would say , 'I have made Abram rich .' 24 "I will take nothing except what the young men have eaten , and the share of the men who went with me, Aner , Eshcol , and Mamre ; let them take their share ."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 14:21-24
Commentary on Genesis 14:21-24
(Read Genesis 14:21-24)
Observe the king of Sodom's grateful offer to Abram, Give me the souls, and take thou the substance. Gratitude teaches us to recompense to the utmost of our power, those that have undergone fatigues, run hazards, and been at expense for our service and benefit. Abram generously refused this offer. He accompanies his refusal with a good reason, Lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich: which would reflect upon the promise promise and covenant of God, as if He would not have enriched Abraham without the spoils of Sodom. The people of God must, for their credit's sake, take heed of doing any thing that looks mean or mercenary, or that savors of covetousness and self-seeking. Abraham can trust the Possessor of Heaven and earth to provide for him.