READ GENESIS 18
Today's reading illustrates a compelling example of fervent intercession. God informs Abraham about His intention to annihilate the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah due to their wickedness. Abraham, driven by love for his nephew Lot residing there and compassion for the inhabitants, pleads with God, respectfully yet boldly, not to destroy the entire area if there are righteous individuals present. Beginning with a request for 50 righteous persons, Abraham adeptly negotiates the number down to just 10. God agrees that if even 10 righteous individuals are found, He will spare the two cities from destruction.
Knowing the eventual outcome, as there are only 4 righteous people in Sodom and Gomorrah, the cities are ultimately obliterated. Despite foreseeing this result, God still engages in this intercessory dialogue with Abraham. Why? If Abraham's sincere supplication was not going to alter God's decision, what was the purpose? This same question often arises for us when we feel our prayers may not influence God's plans or our circumstances, leading us to question their significance. However, observing Abraham's intercession teaches us a valuable lesson. Though the outcome remains unchanged, Abraham himself undergoes a transformation.
While he does not sway God's judgment, he starts to embody God's character. Intercession, defined as "intervening on behalf of another," echoes what Jesus did for us on the cross. Throughout the Scriptures, we witness God intervening for His people, and in this interaction, Abraham intercedes for Sodom and Gomorrah, reflecting God's nature. Despite his prayer not being answered according to his desires, through his dialogue with God, Abraham progresses towards being more like God.
Similarly, in our lives, even when our prayers do not result in the outcomes we desire, we are still encouraged to pray. Through communication with our Heavenly Father, we are gradually transformed to reflect His likeness. This ongoing process of becoming more like God is a central aspect of our spiritual journey.
QUESTIONS
1. Sarah laughed when she learned that she would be giving birth to a baby within the year. Have there been times when you doubted the promises God made to you? Even when you doubted, how has God remained faithful to you?
2. Can you recall a prayer you made that wasn't answered the way you hoped for? How did God shape you or intervene in your life despite the outcome not meeting your expectations?
3. How can you pray for someone in need today? What powerful and brave prayer could you offer on behalf of someone else at this moment?