Being Saved

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 (NKJV)

Yesterday: The Lord heard the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah and sent His angel. First, though, he talked with Abraham whose rather contentious relative, Lot, lived in Sodom.

Abraham begged God to spare the cities from destruction if ten good people could be found there. The Lord agreed because of His righteousness and because of His love for Abraham.

What surprises us is that God went further. When ten could not be found, His angel sent Lot and his whole family away just before the maelstrom struck.

Today: We read this story in awe because of what it reveals: What God did in the Old Testament, He did again in the New. Jesus, like Abraham, prayed for men's salvation. He too went further. In a garden, He prayed for our sanctification. "I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in me through their word" (John 17:20).

We trust God who keeps His promises yesterday, today, and forever. Just as He saved Lot out of evil and immorality, He saved and sanctifies us.

Forever: Paul tells us another mystery, and we recognize its truth. The time will come when the trumpet sounds, and the sleeping and not yet sleeping will be saved out of corruption to enter eternity. Jesus' prayer for believers covers the future.

Lot benefited from Abraham's prayers and received mercy. We have the prayers and sacrifice of Christ, the Messiah. Knowing His word is true, we trust, and look forward to eternity. How great, gracious, and loving is He!

Praise be to the Lord who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

© 2011 V. Colclasure