Genesis 19:20Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Thus, grant me additional compassion and lighten my burdens: for fear that the punishment being imposed on this city may extend to me, causing me to endure the same destiny as them, allow me to seek refuge in this nearby city. Even though this city is humble and small, having found salvation there, I might afterward live in peace.

As Lot made his way toward the mountain, he prayed for permission to enter a small town named Sihor that lay along his path, and he received the go-ahead. This town, which the Lord promised to protect, was located within the territory of Sodom and subject to the same fate, yet it was spared for the sake of the righteous man. With urgency, Lot approached Sihor with his family, and the Lord instructed him, “Endeavor that thou mayest be saved there; for I cannot bring execution upon the people of Sodom until thou art come into Sihor” (Genesis 19:22). How profound is God's mercy toward His servant, as He delays His avenging hand from punishing the wicked to prevent any fear from gripping the righteous when judgment falls upon the sinners!

He is insignificant. Lot expresses this twice, supporting his plea to avoid seeming presumptuous and at odds with God's judgment.