(story told in Genesis 11-14; 19)
Lot was Abraham’s nephew who traveled with him when God called Abraham to leave his homeland. They journeyed together through Canaan, and both became very wealthy with many animals and servants. When their herds grew too large for the land to support them both, Abraham suggested they separate peacefully. Lot chose to live in the fertile plains near the city of Sodom, while Abraham stayed in the hill country.
At first, Lot’s choice seemed wise—Sodom’s land was rich and green. But the people there were wicked and turned away from God. When a war broke out among local kings, Lot was captured and taken away. Abraham gathered his men, rescued Lot, and brought him safely back. Even after that, Lot returned to live near Sodom, showing how easily people can be drawn back to comfort despite danger.
Later, God decided to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah because of their great evil. Angels came to warn Lot, urging him to take his family and flee. Some of his relatives laughed and refused to leave, but Lot obeyed. As they escaped, his wife looked back and was turned into a pillar of salt for disobeying God’s command.
Lot and his two daughters found shelter in the mountains. Sadly, fear and isolation led his daughters to make sinful choices, showing how brokenness can continue even after being saved.
Lot’s story is a reminder that our choices matter. Where we choose to live and what we hold onto can shape our future. Yet even in failure, God’s mercy gives chances to escape and begin again.