Faith Over Perfectionنموونە

Read: Genesis 18:16–33; Psalm 1 

SOAP: Psalm 1:5–6 

For this reason the wicked cannot withstand judgment, nor can sinners join in the assembly of the godly. Certainly the LORD guards the way of the godly, but the way of the wicked ends in destruction. 

Abraham knew God was just and that all of God’s actions reflected His character. God was justified in His desire to destroy the wicked living in Sodom. Their wickedness had become so great that God had no option other than to wipe them from the face of the earth (see God’s similar response to wickedness in Genesis 6:1–8). However, if there were any righteous people in Sodom, God would not have been justified to destroy the whole city, destroying the righteous along with the wicked. 

Abraham knew God would not do something that went against His character. Abraham petitioned God multiple times, pleading for the righteous in Sodom. Not only was Abraham’s nephew Lot living in Sodom, but Abraham also knew many of the people there. Abraham had rescued these men, women, and children from their enemies (see Genesis 14). Of course, Abraham wanted to believe at least some of these people were righteous and worthy of saving. 

Though God had set His mind to destroy the city of Sodom, He listened to Abraham’s plea. God changed His mind and promised to only destroy the city if there were fewer than ten righteous people. God was willing to spare the wicked in the city for the sake of a few righteous people. His justice is displayed in His willingness to spare the righteous, even though sparing the righteous was only possible through allowing the wicked to continue in their wickedness. 

While we will never fully understand God’s decisions, Abraham’s intercession for the people of Sodom reveals much about God’s character. God was patient not only with Abraham but also with the people of Sodom. When we question whether or not God hears our cries for justice, sometimes what we see as inaction on God’s part may actually be His saving hand. His justice is never misapplied. 

Prayer

Father God, I believe You are just. Though I may not always understand Your actions, I believe they are always just. You cannot act in a way that is unjust. Help me see Your care for the righteous, even if it seems that You have let the wicked prosper. Amen.