The Life of Abraham, recorded in the Old Testament book of Genesis, is packed with life lessons and principles we can apply to our personal faith journeys. This man of faith was just a man. The biblical record reveals the good, the bad, and the ugly of his life. But, he presses on in faith in God, and for that very reason, his life is worth diligent study.
Among the many interesting accounts of Abraham’s life is that of Sodom and Gomorrah found in Genesis 18. God reveals a plan to destroy these cities due to their wickedness. This might seem like a pretty harsh situation, but we can’t overstate the devastating effects of sin and life in this fallen world.
We discover that Abraham enters into a conversation with God to mediate for these cities. He pleads with God to spare the righteous people who live in Sodom and Gomorrah. The Lord agrees to spare Sodom if only ten righteous people are found in the city. Unfortunately, there are not even ten righteous people found in Sodom. It’s noteworthy that Abraham’s nephew Lot and his family lived in Sodom. Before Sodom is destroyed, Lot and his daughters are saved.
There’s much we can learn from this account. However, it’s Abraham’s caring heart for people, including those far from God but so close to His heart, that really sticks out to me. As we read the account, there’s no doubt that the people of Sodom are wicked. But, Abraham still pleads for them. He does this while respecting God’s right to cast judgment. Abraham’s faith in the Lord led to him yielding his will to God’s will.
When I look at this account, I’m challenged to share Abraham’s heart for people. I, too, ought to love those in Christ as well as those who have yet to receive Him as Lord and Savior. Also, like Abraham, I need to accept God’s judgments, even when His decisions differ from my preferences. I have to admit this can be difficult. It can be a real test of faith.
Ultimately, I must remember that there is a God, and I am not Him. I may not always understand why He makes the choices He does, but a God I can totally grasp is not a God worthy of my worship. The good news is that God has revealed enough of Himself to me to believe He’s good, faithful, and worthy of my trust.
It’s easy to read the account and question why we ought to mediate for others if, at times, like Abraham, we don’t see the answer we desired. But, first, I am reminded that prayer is not about changing God’s mind but ultimately about leading me to bring my will into alignment with His. Also, let’s not forget God did rescue Lot and his daughters. Yes, the cities were destroyed, but Abraham’s nephew and nieces are saved.
Again, there is a lot we could unpack from this account. It’s kept theologians and skeptics busy alike. People like to point to this passage and make all kinds of implications. I would encourage a careful examination noting the context of the account and, of course, taking the whole of Scriptures teachings to bear on this account.
Looking at this passage, I seem to always go back to prayer. Abraham’s prayer on behalf of others is worth emulating. His prayer on behalf of others was important. So too are ours. As I pray for others, like Abraham, my caring for others grows. My heart is formed into a likeness of our Lord’s. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!