What can we learn from Lot's courage in Genesis 19:6 for today? Setting the Scene Genesis 19 finds Lot living in Sodom when two angels arrive. The men of the city surround Lot’s house with violent intent. Verse 6 records his response: “But Lot went outside to meet them, shutting the door behind him.” (Genesis 19:6) A Snapshot of Courage • Lot knowingly steps into danger to protect his guests. • He acts swiftly—he “shut[s] the door behind him,” sealing the vulnerable inside. • Despite Sodom’s pervasive wickedness (Genesis 13:13), Lot chooses righteousness in a decisive moment. Timeless Lessons for Believers • Courage defends the defenseless – Lot shields the visitors who depend on his hospitality (cf. Proverbs 31:8). • Courage often looks like immediate, physical action – Closing that door wasn’t symbolic; it was practical protection (James 2:17). • Courage risks personal safety for obedience – Lot faced an enraged mob; his safety lay inside, yet he stepped out (John 15:13). • Courage stands alone when culture is hostile – “The righteous are as bold as a lion” (Proverbs 28:1). Lot’s whole city opposed him, yet he stood firm. • Courage flows from a reverence for God – Lot had “righteous” standing (2 Peter 2:7–8). Fear of God outweighed fear of people (Psalm 27:1). How to Live Out Lot’s Example Today 1. Protect those under your roof • Parents, grandparents, roommates—make your home a refuge. • Guard what comes through media, friendships, and influences (Psalm 101:3). 2. Take decisive action against evil • Address sin promptly in personal life and community (Ephesians 5:11). 3. Stand up even when alone • In workplaces, schools, or neighborhoods, speak truth graciously (Ephesians 4:15). 4. Count the cost—then move anyway • Courage is not the absence of fear but obedience in spite of it (2 Timothy 1:7). 5. Draw strength from God’s promises • “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous…for the LORD your God is with you” (Joshua 1:9). Summing Up Lot’s simple act—stepping outside and shutting the door—shows that godly courage may be quiet but decisive, risky yet rooted in faith. In a world that still resembles Sodom in many ways, believers can echo Lot’s courage by protecting the vulnerable, confronting evil, and trusting the God who stands with the righteous. |
    |