Walking in His Purpose: Finding Strength and Blessings in God’s Call预览

Abraham's Intercession: A Call to Chosen Vessels

Then he said, “May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak just once more.
What if only ten can be found there?”
He answered, “For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it.”

When Abraham learned of the imminent destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah because of their grievous sins, he did not sit idly by. His heart was deeply burdened for the righteous individuals living within those cities, particularly for his nephew Lot and his family. Though God had already declared His judgment, Abraham felt compelled to intercede, appealing to God on behalf of the innocent.

“Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked?” Abraham pleaded, understanding that even a few righteous people might stand in the gap and avert God’s wrath.

God responded with great mercy, offering Abraham the chance to negotiate:

• “If I find 50 righteous people in Sodom, I will spare the whole place.”

• “If I find 45 righteous people, I will not destroy it.”

• “For the sake of 40, I will not do it.”

• “For the sake of 30, I will not do it.”

• “For the sake of 20, I will not destroy it.”

• “For the sake of 10, I will not destroy it.”

Abraham boldly continued to intercede, pressing for the sake of the righteous. Ultimately, God agreed that if even 10 righteous individuals could be found, He would spare the cities.

This remarkable exchange between Abraham and God speaks volumes about the responsibility of God's chosen people. Abraham was a passive follower and a chosen vessel through whom God revealed His plans. In the same way, God calls us, His chosen vessels, to stand in the gap for our families, communities, and even the world. He shares His heart with those who seek His will and expects us to intercede on behalf of others, particularly for their salvation.

Just as God called Abraham a voice for the righteous, He calls us to be intercessors for the salvation of those around us. Are we moved by the condition of our city, family, and neighbours? Do we have the same heart of compassion that Abraham displayed, pleading for mercy, praying for their salvation, and seeking God’s grace to cover them?

When we embrace the role of intercessor, God invites us into the intimacy of His plans. Our prayers have power, and our willingness to stand in the gap can change the course of events, just as Abraham’s intercession did.

Prayer: Lord, just as Abraham interceded for Sodom and Gomorrah, we, too, plead for our city and our household. May Your mercy withhold Your wrath, and may Your grace surround us, shielding us from harm. Give us hearts burdened for the salvation of our families, neighbours, and cities, that they may come to know You and be saved. In Jesus’ name, Amen.