Sodom and Gomorrah - Ends

Genesis 19:27-29 Now Abraham arose early in the morning and went to the place where he had stood before the LORD; and he looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the valley, and he saw, and behold,the smoke of the land ascended like the smoke of a furnace. Thus it came about, when God destroyed the cities of the valley, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when He overthrew the cities in which Lot lived.

I can't imagine the pain and anguish of the citizens of New York City on September 12, 2001. As they woke up the morning after and walked towards the World Trade Center - now 'Ground Zero'. To see nothing left but dust and debris and disaster. Where once there was a bustling of business and daily activity - death and destruction lay.

The pain in Abraham's heart must have been just as great. Even though he may not have known many people in the city of Sodom and Gomorrah, this is not a fate you wish on anyone. Lot was not going to be spared. God was going to destroy the entire city before speaking to Abraham. Lot included. Do I think Lot changed after his life was spared by God - sure, but at the time of decision for the destruction, he was living his life as he pleased.

What changed? What made the difference for Lot? The prayer of one man. Abraham asked God to spare Lot and his family.

I often wondered when people said, "we need prayers for so and so" or "could you pray for me" - that it seemed so 'churchy' - something people say but never really do. But the Bible shows us differently. The prayer of one can change a life. Do you know someone who could use some intervention? Someone who doesn't know God? Someone who just needs encouraged? Someone who is sick? Someone having financial struggles? God answers prayer. God performs miracles and all we have to do is ask. He saved Lot's life all because Abraham asked. Who will you take the time to pray for today?