Tragic Lesson in Moving Forward

There are approximately 93 people mentioned by name in the Bible. There are many others who are not mentioned by name, but only one that Jesus told us to remember.

She is a tragic figure, remembered for her one fateful decision. How would you like to be known for the rest of earth’s history only as having made the worst decision of your life? That would be rough.

As she and her family fled Sodom, God’s instructions were crystal clear: do not look back, just keep moving forward. But she glanced back, and in that moment, Lot’s wife was turned into a pillar of salt. It is such a short moment in the story, but it carries so much weight.

Her decision to look back was not just about curiosity. It revealed a heart still attached to Sodom, to everything she was leaving behind; she loved city life, and she loved her life there.

Even though she was physically walking away, a huge part of her did not want to let go, and that is what makes her story so powerful. Her story is a reminder of how hard it can be to leave behind the things that hold us back, even when we know they are not good for us.

It is easy to judge her choice, but truth be told, we have all done something similar, right? I have! Sometimes, even when I know God is calling me to something better, I hesitate. Can you relate to this statement? We look back, second-guessing whether the step forward is really worth it. Maybe it is because of comfort, familiarity, or fear of the unknown, but Lot’s wife reminds us how dangerous it is to stay attached to things that God is asking us to leave behind.

When Jesus said, “Remember Lot’s wife,” He was not just referencing her story; He was warning us about divided loyalties. “Remember Lot’s wife” is a call to focus on what lies ahead and to trust God completely, even when it’s hard! Even when we don’t want to.

Obedience to God is more than just following the rules; it is all about the attitude of our heart. She obeyed outwardly by leaving Sodom, but inwardly, she was still tied to it. That is what cost her everything; it cost her life.

Her story challenges me to think about my own life. Are there things I am holding on to that I should let go of? Old habits, unhealthy relationships, past regrets, things that keep me from moving forward with God? Lot’s wife’s glance back was not worth it, and neither is anything that keeps us from God’s best for us.

Ultimately, her story is not just about judgment; it is about trust. God’s plans are always better than what we leave behind, even if we cannot see it in the moment!

There is danger in looking back and longing for the past. God urges us to move forward in faith. Trust His direction for your life, even when you do not fully understand.

Lot’s wife’s life ended in tragedy, but her story serves as a powerful reminder to keep our eyes forward and trust that God knows what He is doing.

"But Lot's wife, behind him, looked back, and she became a pillar of salt." —Genesis 19:26 ESV

by Jeanette Stark – Thursday, December 19, 2024