Boldness & Humility

Abraham learned that God was about to judge Sodom and Gomorrah. Since his nephew, Lot, lived in that area, he had reason to be concerned. What was he to do? There was no record of anyone else ever approaching God on a matter like this. There were no books to read. No sermons to hear. No one to consult.

We sense how Abraham must have felt uncertain. At first, he seemed tentative, as if he wasn’t really sure what to do. We see him testing the waters, carefully asking, “Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it?”

Throughout this exchange, Abraham employed two seemingly opposite attitudes. Although he was bold, he coupled this boldness with humility. He realized that he was “but dust and ashes.”

Not sure of the outcome, Abraham asked his question as clearly as he could, yet also humbly. Much to his delight (and probably surprise), God agreed that He would not bring judgment if 50 righteous people could be found. Abraham continued this approach until the Lord revealed that He would spare Sodom and Gomorrah if only 10 righteous people could be found.

Abraham’s example shows us how God listens to our petitions if we ask in the right spirit. He responds to those who approach Him with humility (James 4:10), but He also encourages us to be bold (John 16:23).

Today, learn from Abraham. Don’t hesitate to bring your concerns to God boldly. But never forget to be humble. He will hear your prayers!