Read: Genesis 18:1—19:29
Then Abraham said, “Oh do not let the Lord be angry if I speak just once more. Suppose ten [righteous people] are found there.” The Lord answered, “For the sake of ten I will not destroy Sodom.”. . . Abraham went early in the morning 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 Plain and saw the smoke of the land going up like the smoke of a furnace. Genesis 18:32 & 19:27–28
Abraham did his best negotiating in an attempt to save his nephew, Lot, from destruction. God, in the form of three men, came to Abraham’s tent and let the old man know of the divine intention to obliterate the sinful cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Fearing for his nephew’s life, Abraham bargained with the Lord to spare the city of Sodom if only ten righteous people could be found in the city. God agreed. God was moved by Abraham’s plea. However, the next day, as Abraham saw the smoky mushroom clouds of God’s wrath in the valley below, he learned that while it is possible to move God, God resists being controlled.
We all try to strike bargains with God from time to time, and the Bible attests to the fact that God not only hears our pleas but also responds to them. But the willingness of God to be deeply moved and involved in our lives does not mean God is controlled by our desires. In the end, God is God, and we are not. God will do what God will do, whether we like it or not. Perhaps we should spend less time trying to manipulate God and more time worshiping the One in whose charge are all things.
Do you try to control God or worship God?
Lord, I want to manage You like I try to manage all other aspects of my life. But thankfully You resist and refuse my control. Thank You for the many times You remind me of my place —on my knees, head bowed, waiting on You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.