“And Lot pitched his tent towards Sodom”

Remember this in choosing a dwelling-place, or residence. It is not enough that the house is comfortable – the situation good – the air fine – the neighbourhood pleasant – the rent or price small – the living cheap. There are other things yet to be considered. You must think of your immortal soul. Will the house you think help you towards heaven or hell? Is the gospel preached within an easy distance? Is Christ crucified within reach of your door? Is there a real man of God near who will watch over your soul? I charge you, if you love life, not to overlook this. Beware of Lot’s choice.

Remember this in choosing a calling, a place, a profession in life. It is not enough that the salary is high – the wages good – the work light – the advantages numerous – the prospects of getting on most favourable. Think of your soul, your immortal soul. Will it be prospered or drawn back? Will you have your Sundays free, and be able to have one day in your week for your spiritual business? I beseech you by the mercies of God to take heed what you do. Make no rash decision. Look at the place in every light – the light of God as well as the light of the world. Gold may be bought too dear. Beware of Lot’s choice.

Remember this in choosing a husband or wife, if you are unmarried. It is not enough that your eye is pleased – that your tastes are met – that your minds find congeniality – that there is amiability and affection – that there is a comfortable home for life. There needs to be something more than this. There is a life yet to come. Think of your soul, your immortal soul, Will it be helped upwards or dragged downwards by the union you are planning? Will it be made more heavenly or more earthly – drawn nearer to Christ or to the world? Will its religion grow in vigour, or will it decay? I pray you, by all your hopes of glory, allow this to enter into your calculations. “Think,” as old Baxter said, and “think, and think again,” before you commit yourself. “Be not unequally yoked” (2nd Cor. 6:14). Matrimony is nowhere named among the means of conversion. Remember Lot’s choice.

From The Wicket Gate Magazine, published in the UK, used with permission.