Genesis 19:15

And when the morning arose, then the angels hastened Lot, saying, Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in the iniquity of the city.

Genesis 19:15 (KJV)

Context

This verse occurs just before the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The angels had arrived the previous night, Lot had shown them hospitality, and the wicked men of the city had surrounded his house. Now morning has come, and the angels act with urgency. The rising sun marks a turning point: for Sodom, it is the day of judgment; for Lot, it is the day of salvation.

Meaning

The angels hasten Lot, telling him to take his wife and two daughters who are present. The phrase “which are here” shows that the daughters were with him at that moment. The command to arise is a call to immediate action. The warning “lest thou be consumed in the iniquity of the city” makes clear that the city’s punishment is tied to its sin. Lot must separate himself from that wickedness to be saved. The angels’ urgency shows the grave danger and the need for instant response.

Biblical connections

This urgency continues in the next verse, where Lot lingers and the angels must seize him and his family to bring them out (Genesis 19:16). That hesitation shows how even a righteous person can feel pulled by worldly attachments. The New Testament later describes Lot as righteous but distressed by the lawless deeds around him (2 Peter 2:7-8). God’s rescue is both urgent and gracious, as the angels not only warn but also hasten Lot.

Application

When God calls us to leave sin, we should respond promptly. Delaying can put us in danger. The morning that brought judgment to Sodom became the day of salvation for Lot. For us, God’s warning is also an invitation to escape through His mercy. We must not linger when He directs us to act.

Reflection

This verse reminds us that God’s judgment on iniquity is certain, but His mercy provides a way of escape. Lot’s rescue was not because of his own strength, but because God chose to deliver him. We can trust that God will faithfully lead us out of danger when we heed His call.