When I think of the word 'evil' I often think of a 'bad guy' in a movie.

Genesis 19:1-38

Reference:  v.16  When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the Lord was merciful to them. (NIV Bible)

Explore:  This is a pretty full-on passage.  While it tells of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah it also shows God's mercy to Lot and his family.  And if we take into account that it was a merciful God who destroyed the city then we realise that the example of evil that was given in this chapter was only a small part of the selfishness and immorality that was desired within this city.  And yet Lot was still resistant to leave!

Application:  When I think of the word 'evil' I often think of a 'bad guy' in a movie.  Whenever they are on screen there is sinister music in the background, they often wear dark colours and everything they do is laced with evil actions.  And yet if all evil was like this we would be alerted to it's alure earlier and know to resist it.  However, looking at the state of our world today, it's clear to see that evil isn't obvious, it's often irresistible.  It often presents subtly and we commit to a line of actions that just gradually take us further and further away from God.  Lot was hesitant to leave Sodom even when there was great evil going on in that place. And yet God showed mercy, even in that place of such evil. Our God truly does want to draw us back to him.

Prayer:  Lord, the evil that we are drawn to is often enticing and irresistible.  May Your Spirit open our eyes and give us the strength to resist.  Amen.

What do you instantly think of when you hear the word 'evil'?  What evil is present in your area?