For the past two days, we’ve looked at the events that transpired when God visited Abraham at his tent in Genesis 18. As we saw, the nomad went out of his way to welcome the Lord, and his generous hospitality remains a source of inspiration for us as we make the Holy Spirit at home in our lives today. However, something else happened during this interesting encounter, and it came in the form of a warning. The Almighty told His covenant-bearer that He was considering destroying the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Because so many cries of injustice had gone up to Him from that place, He felt the need to go and investigate. After giving Abraham a “heads-up” about His plan, the two of them had a back-and-forth discussion, and ultimately, the Lord promised to spare the city if just ten righteous men could be found there. Though He didn’t have to make any such deal with a mere mortal, His lovingkindness and patience prevailed, and He proved once more just how merciful He is. Though all of us are by nature deserving of wrath, our Heavenly Father is gracious to us, and He gives us ample time to change course and share His truth with those who need to do the same. He is not willing that any should perish, and He gladly withholds judgment for the sake of just a few righteous men and women.

My friend, Jesus is full of patience, righteousness, and justice. He is not erratic, temperamental, or quick to anger, nor does He react in haste when His heart is hurt by sin. All of His ways are pure and true, and in every circumstance, He is working to bring about the very best for His children. When you abide in Him and invite His Spirit to speak clearly to yours, He lovingly directs your path, gives you power to turn away from harm, and offers you grace upon grace to overcome every struggle and challenge that you face!