The destruction of Sodom is usually considered the result of gross moral decadence through a perversion that has gained widespread acceptance today. However, today’s key verse indicates that this moral depravity was a natural outcome of other sins that are often considered less despicable.

Pride is the exaltation of self. It has caused the downfall of many, including Lucifer, King Saul, Nebuchadnezzar, and a host of other Bible characters. How does pride affect us? Are we thankful to God for our material blessings, our families, our knowledge of Scripture, and our godly heritage? Or are we proud of them? There is a big difference.

Fullness of bread is something that nearly all Americans can identify with, since few of us suffer from lack of food. We live in a nation where obesity is rampant. What about us? Do we eat to live or live to eat? Overindulgence can easily lead to the sin of gluttony.

Abundance of idleness is common among those who view food, shelter, and clothing as inalienable rights, whether or not they work. This entitlement mentality is a national disgrace. Leisure and recreation are right in their proper place, but too often they become a substitute for a work ethic of honest productivity.

Do we justify luxuries simply because we can afford them? Or would a more frugal lifestyle allow us to be more generous with what God has blessed us? While the surface sin of Sodom is certainly repulsive, let us beware lest the foundation of that sin—pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness—is established in our own hearts.

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. 2 Corinthians 13:5

~ Pete Lewis