Daily Devotional

“Then Abraham answered and said, ‘Indeed now, I who am but dust and ashes have taken it upon myself to speak to the Lord’” (Genesis 18:27). 

British royals are friendly and open in public—to a point. There is a strict protocol when approaching or speaking with members of the monarchy. It is considered polite for men to bow and women to curtsey.  Over-familiarity is not allowed and some topics are taboo, such as money, servants, religion, and sicknesses. 

Years ago, when King George VI was seriously ill, his daughter, Princess Margaret, had a friend visit, who offhandedly asked, “By the way, how’s your father?” Margaret was a stickler for protocol and replied coldly, “I take it you mean His Majesty King George VI?” Then and there she broke off the friendship. 

Abraham had a relationship with One who was of the highest royalty in the universe. He was even called a friend of God. There are appropriate ways to bow to British royalty either from the neck or the waist. But when the Lord appeared to Abraham with two other heavenly visitors, he “bowed himself to the ground” (Genesis 18:2). The Hebrew words indicate that this was an act of worship. 

When the Lord indicated that He would be visiting Sodom and Gomorrah “because their sin is very grave” (verse 20), Abraham “came near and said, ‘Would You also destroy the righteous with the wicked?’” (verse 23). What followed is an extraordinary conversation between the Lord and Abraham. With considerable modesty, the humble patriarch pleaded on behalf of these wicked cities. Most amazing is the willing dialogue in which God participated with Abraham. 

The Lord is interested in talking with you as well. Each day God is ready and waiting to commune with you. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come into him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). 

Dear heavenly Father, I long to connect deeply with You today. Make Yourself known to me.