Examples

 "For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them in chains of darkness to be held for judgment; if he did not spare the ancient world when he brought the flood on its ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others; if he condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly;"

— 2 Peter 2:4-6

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

Peter is beginning an if-then statement that doesn't conclude until verse 9. But here at the front, I see God's righteous judgment and three examples of his judgment. David Guzik explains it this way:

- God judged the angels who sinned, so no one is too high to be judged.

- God judged the ancient world before the flood, so God doesn't grade on a curve, only comparing man among other men.

- God judged Sodom and Gomorrah, so even the prosperous can be judged.

Therefore the ungodly have no reason to think they can escape God's judgment. Their coming judgment is certain. As You said in Luke 10:10-12, for those who reject the truth, "It will be more tolerable in that Day for Sodom."

Lord, there is a measure of comfort in knowing that the ungodliness around me and throughout our world will face judgment. No one will escape. These examples serve as vivid reminders of how You address ungodliness. Your patience upon our nation and our world must be growing thin. But as we'll read soon, 2 Peter 3:9 declares, "...he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

Lord Jesus, were it not for You, Your righteous, sinless blood shed for me on the cross, I would not be able to stand under God's judgment. It is only because of Your sacrifice on my behalf, one I do not deserve in the slightest, that I too won't be an example of God's judgment. Thank You Lord for saving me. May I see Your mighty hand save others and protect them from also being an example.

— In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen!

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