Studying Genesis 18 and seeing how Abraham, a close friend of God, humbly negotiated with God about people he barely knew was both fascinating and challenging to me as a believer. There are many lessons to glean from this chapter, but today, I am choosing to focus on the life of Abraham’s nephew, Lot.
Initially, observing Abraham’s negotiation with God, I thought it was primarily because of his concern for his nephew. However, as the number of righteous individuals Abraham negotiated for dropped to ten and he stopped, I began to wonder what might have been on his mind. Although God would have granted Abraham’s request had he continued, why did Abraham stop at ten? What thoughts were running through his mind?
While studying, I considered that Abraham might have been disappointed in Lot for not winning souls outside his family, seeing that only Lot and his family were saved in the end. Was Lot simply watching people sin, going about their business without intervening? Or did he try to call for repentance, but no one responded?
Then I came across 2 Peter 2:7-9. Reading this passage allowed me to see things from Lot’s perspective. His heart bled for the people of Sodom and Gomorrah. Just being among them was already torturous for his soul. I bet he tried several times to preach to these people, not just when he attempted to protect the angelic beings in Genesis 19. Hence, God saved only Lot and his family.
Why does Lot’s story resemble Noah’s story so much? (Just my wandering thoughts.)
I can see why our world and communities today can seem like Lot’s and Noah’s, and why our hearts bleed for lost souls. It is my prayer that we don’t give up praying or grow weary in reaching out to souls within our spheres of influence. Whatever you’re doing to advance the kingdom, keep at it. The Lord knows and has a plan for how He will protect those who are truly His. It is my prayer and desire that we all genuinely change our ungodly ways, turn to our Maker with all sincerity, and not harden our hearts.
Shalom,
Sosasmama 💝
OCHIENGfamily 