The Genesis account reveals much about the ancient city of Sodom and its neighboring community, Gomorrah—names that resonate with infamy. Sodom, mentioned approximately 46 times in the Bible, is often remembered for its association with wickedness. Genesis 13:13 (NIV) states, “Now the people of Sodom were wicked and were sinning greatly against the Lord”.
Abraham and Lot his nephew grew in possession after journeying together for a while, which made cohabiting peacefully difficult. Lot parted ways with his uncle and pitched near Sodom (A city known for wickedness Genesis 18:20). Their wickedness was so grievous that it reached the heavens, provoking God to intervene and ultimately destroy the city (Genesis 19:24).
The Bible makes no indication that Lot engaged in Sodom’s immoral customs. He was, in fact, characterized as “a righteous man, who was distressed by the depraved conduct of the lawless” 2 Peter 2:7-8 (NKJV). Yet, despite his righteousness, the moral decay of Sodom had a devastating impact on his family. Lot offered his daughters to the mob to protect his male guests (Genesis 19:1, 
. Later, his daughters, influenced by the depravity they witnessed in Sodom, made him drunk and committed incest with him (Genesis 19:30-38 ESV). These tragic events underscore the pervasive influence of a corrupt environment.
Today, one might be tempted to label a particular city, country, or continent as the “Sodom” of our time. But the truth is, the spirit of Sodom is present everywhere, infiltrating every corner of our world. This article serves as a wake-up call to every follower of Christ: although we live in the world, we are not of the world (John 17:16 ESV). Isaiah 52:11 urges us, “Depart, depart, go out from there! Touch no unclean thing! Come out of it and be pure, you who carry the articles of the Lord’s house” (NIV). Anything—whether associations, friendships, actions, or thoughts—that draws us away from Christ represents Sodom in our lives. Some of us may not just be pitching our tents near Sodom but have fully taken up residence there.
So, let us ask ourselves: Are we pitching our tents near Sodom? Do our actions and lifestyles reflect proximity to this symbolic place of sin? What kind of associations or friendships are we maintaining? How do social media and electronic devices shape our lives? It’s crucial to be honest with ourselves and continually examine our hearts (2 Corinthians 13:5). The Bible warns us not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers: “For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
Dear reader, today is the day to renew or establish your covenant with Christ. Pray for the grace to move your tent far from Sodom, choosing instead to live fully for Christ and His love alone.
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