Today’s Reading: Genesis 19-20, Psalm 1, Mark 7
Genesis 19-20
What a storyline we have in our reading of Genesis today. The city had corruption throughout, and sitting in the gateway to the city was Lot. As I read through the chapters, I read about some disturbing things happening in the city. Still, Lot had stayed. He could have left. As a son of a father who suffered from alcoholism, I remember the many times others tried to help him with sobriety. This task would not have been possible if he had hung out at the bar or at places that served alcohol. Lot settled in corrupt Sodom. Settling down in this city subjected him to compromise and danger and will often lead to destruction. Usually, no good can come from a believer’s failure to run from sin and temptation.
This makes me think of this last week’s message at church about Daniel being in Babylon. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to this sermon by Pastor Mike, check it out here.
Are there places you are hanging out that can cause temptation? Things we are watching, hearing, or saying that can lead to sin? If so, flee. Get out. Thankfully Lot had a Father that prayed for him, and the Lord saved him as the city of Sodom was destroyed. (Genesis 19:29) It’s a great reminder that just like Abraham’s prayers for his son, our genuine prayers are mightier than we will ever know!
James 5:16 …The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
Matthew 17:20 Jesus taught, ” …Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
Psalm 1
Our eternal peace will come from being planted in God’s Word. Our obedience will help as we walk through our life on earth, even in the face of trials.
- Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
Mark 7
In connecting Mark 7 to Psalm 1, I reflect on the verses in Mark that focus on our true obedience. Mark 7:6 shares how Jesus spoke of those who honored with their mouths but not with their hearts. (deep pause and reflection/repentance)
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your Living Word. Thank you for these stories and Your Word that helps us to look at our lives and draw closer to You. Help us be more obedient to You, look at our lives, and find the areas we need to give to You. Help us to grow closer to you each day. Amen