Sodom was a wicked and sexually immoral city in ancient times. Due to the city being fertile and well-watered, Lot chose to move there with his family (Genesis 13:10-13). This would prove to be a horrible decision! Lot would suffer and reap all kinds of problems.
Who was impacted by Lot’s choosing of Sodom?
Lot’s faith was impacted.
- While Lot is described as a righteous man, his faith did not impact the wicked people of Sodom. Instead, it appears the opposite took place!
- When angels arrived in Sodom, they found Lot “sitting in the gate” (Genesis 19:1). This area was the most important part of ancient cities. Men of influence would gather here to make decisions and perform business transactions (Ruth 4:1-4). Lot may have been an important official in Sodom. He certainly seemed immersed in the city’s culture!
- When wicked men of Sodom attempt to sexually assault the angels sent to destroy the city, Lot offers them his daughters (Genesis 19:8).
- When the angels urged Lot to leave Sodom immediately, he hesitated (Genesis 19:16).
- When the Lord commanded Lot to escape to the mountains, he offered a different plan and demonstrated a lack of trust in God (Genesis 19:17-20).
- Lot’s faith and commitment to God dwindled during this time in Sodom. His example teaches us that we need to consider potential consequences before making critical decisions. We must ask ourselves, “How could this decision impact my faith and spiritual growth?”
Lot’s family was impacted.
- In addition to having a wife and two daughters, Lot also had sons and sons-in-law (Genesis 19:12-15). He seemed to have a big family!
- What happened to Lot’s family? The sons and sons-in-law were killed in the city. Lot’s wife was turned into a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:24-26). Lot’s daughters got him drunk and committed sexual immorality with him (Genesis 19:30-38).
- Our decisions not only impact us personally, but they also impact others. This is a reality that fathers need to remember (Ephesians 6:4). Lot prioritizing earthly gain costs him everything. He left Sodom broke and with almost no family.
Abraham was impacted.
- Abraham’s intercession played a huge part in Lot receiving God’s grace and kindness. (Genesis 19:27-29). God remembered Abraham’s passionate plea to save the righteous members of his family (Genesis 18:20-33).
- If we pray for the “Lots” in our lives, God may show them patience on our behalf. He may offer them more opportunities and time to start doing what is right.
- What might have happened to Lot if Abraham didn’t plead to God on his behalf?
Conclusion:
Sodom received judgment from God. There will come a time when God’s final judgment will take place. Are you prepared to stand before God on that great day?