Lot’s choice of compromise and comfort in Sodom bore bad fruit (13:10-13). The angels sent to Sodom are not enamored with Lot’s “hospitality.” The townsfolk, whom Lot considered his “friends” (7), were violently evil (4-5), and did not respect him (9). Nor did his own sons-in-law (14). Even when being saved, he could not really trust God, seeking comfort in Zoar (20-22). His compromise damaged his family: his wife looked back and became a pillar of salt (26). Jesus says it is a warning against being entrapped by the things of this world (Lk 17:30-32). Lot’s daughters had not learned the way of God like Abraham’s family (18:19), but rather learned to follow what was “the custom all over the earth” (31), leading to the origin of two enemy tribes: the Moabites and the Ammonites.

In spite of all this, God was merciful to Lot and his family (16), and delivered them, remembering Abraham his friend (29). Lot’s story is a lesson to wholeheartedly pursue God, as the consequences are too terrible – not only for us, but our family and society as well. But it is also a lesson of our God’s great mercy. Let’s respond to his mercy and pray for our people to do so as well.
Application: Father, you are so merciful to me, even when I’m stubborn like Lot. Help me to trust in your mercy and seek your ways each day. Hear our prayer for the people around us to trust you too.
One Word: God’s mercy is revealed in Jesus