Abraham’s Boldness Before God

Abraham approached him and said, "Will you sweep away both the righteous and the wicked?"

Genesis 18:23

God's commitment to justice led him to condemn the evil city of Sodom. Yet, in an astonishing display of boldness, Abraham challenged God's standards of justice. He appealed for Sodom on the basis that there might be a few righteous people left in the city.

Perhaps even more amazing than Abraham's brashness with God is God's response to Abraham. He didn't tell Abraham to shut up and mind his own business. Rather, the Lord entered into dialogue with Abraham, even appearing to have his mind changed by Abraham's appeal.

Later in the Old Testament, in the Psalms, for example, we will find many instances of this sort of boldness before God. The New Testament will invite us to "come boldly to the throne of our gracious God" (Heb. 4:16). We can imitate Abraham's "no holds barred" conversation with God because of God's grace extended to us in Christ.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: Have you ever had a conversation with God like that of Abraham? When? How free are you to tell God exactly what you think and feel?

PRAYER: Gracious Lord, this story of Abraham astounds me, even as it draws me close to you. When I see how bold Abraham was with you and how receptive you were to him, I am encouraged to tell you the whole truth and not hold back. Because Christ has opened for me the way to your throne of grace, I can tell you everything in my heart. Thank you, dear Lord, for this incredible opportunity. Help me to find the right balance in my life of humble submission to your will and bold freedom in prayer. How good it is to know I am welcome before you. How comforting to know that you are a God of justice, mercy, and love. Amen.