Thought

In Genesis 13, when Lot first settled near Sodom, we learned that the people there were “wicked and were sinning greatly against the Lord” (verse 13). Then in Genesis 18, we found out that the people were so terrible that an outcry against them had reached God. Living in such a place must have had some damaging effects on Lot and his family. But when two angels came, Lot courageously provided for them and kept them safe from the wicked men. The angels also tried to keep Lot and his whole family safe from the city’s destruction by warning them to flee.

Word

Psalm 37:16–17 NIV

Better the little that the righteous have
than the wealth of many wicked;
for the power of the wicked will be broken,
but the LORD upholds the righteous.

Question

If you had to tell someone they needed to leave immediately because their city was going to be destroyed, how would you deliver that message?

What could you say that would make people know you weren’t kidding?

Challenge

Lot showed courage a few ways in this story. First, he was brave enough to approach the two angels and to insist they come stay with him in his own house. Then he actually went outside and faced the evil, violent crowd, whose minds seemed overtaken with sinful desires. Finally, it took great courage to follow the angels’ instruction and get his family out of the city, leaving everything they had behind them. You might not have any angels stopping by your neighborhood, but next time someone new moves to your community or comes to your school, you could go out of your way to be kind and welcoming to that person. Show them around and help them feel at home.

Prayer

Almighty and holy God, I know You rule over both wicked people and righteous people. Help me to have the courage to stand up against anyone who seeks to hurt others. Amen.