January 17, 2020
What does it say?
The Lord, along with two angels, appeared to Abraham in the form of men. He again foretold the birth of Isaac, as well as the fall of the wicked cities of the plains.
What does it mean?
As three men approached Abraham and Sarah’s home, Abraham recognized that these were not ordinary men but angels accompanying the Lord Himself. The Lord spoke to Abraham as a friend (James 2:23), telling him of the coming destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. With great humility and heartfelt emotion, Abraham entreated the Lord for the lives of the people living there. Abraham displayed boldness in asking God over and over to show leniency to the wicked in order to save the righteous. It is to Abraham’s credit that he desired mercy, rather than judgment, on those wicked cities.
How should I respond?
We like to talk about God’s love, but we rarely discuss God’s judgment on sin, which can fall at any time on any nation. Intercession for the world around you is the responsibility of every follower of Christ. What specific things are you praying about that could change the direction of your community and nation? Do you honestly desire God’s mercy for those who live contrary to His commands? How often do you pray that your neighbors, government leaders, and those in authority would repent and come to Christ? Start today. Be intentional. It might be your boldness that brings a community to Christ.