Blind But Still Obsessed

But the men [angels] reached out their hands and brought Lot into the house with them and shut the door. And they struck with blindness the men who were at the entrance of the house, both small and great, so that they wore themselves out groping for the door.  Genesis 19:10-11

Two angels came to Lot and his family to protect them. They not only shut the door of his home to keep the gang from entering, but they struck them with blindness as well.  That didn’t deter them.  They were still obsessed with finding the door and breaking in ~ so strong was their obsession to inflict harm.

What does it take to submit to the hand of God?  A lot.  Man can be so stubborn. It usually takes a lot of time and pain to bring people to the end of themselves.   We want what we want.  The older we get, the more obstinate we become.  If children are not taught the sweet fruit of submission when they’re young, the desire for personal autonomy grows over time.  It’s so much harder to submit at 45 than it was when we were 4 years old.  That’s why children should be taught to obey the first time.  They are being prepared to say, “Yes, Lord!” when Jesus calls them.

You may be watching the Lord break the rebellious will of a loved one.  You may be shaking your head at how long it’s taking.  Though they feel the heavy hand of God, they still grope for the door that leads them to satisfy their cravings.  Though it may look hopeless, it is not.  While not all believe, some do.  Those who burn the brightest for the kingdom experienced a pivotal moment when they surrendered in the fire. 

If we are watching the crushing of that person we love, we must know that God knows their limits and frame.  We can trust Him even when He afflicts – even in our tears for their repentance.

Lord, I can’t stand to watch so give me grace.  Do what is necessary, quickly, to bring them to their knees.  I know Your justice but I am comforted that You are also limitless in mercy. Amen