God Protects & Saves His People
Obadiah is given the unenviable
task to confront two members of
a feuding family. The Jews in Judah
(descendants of Jacob) and the
Edomites (descendants of Esau)
were blood brothers but with little
visible love between them. When
the enemies of Judah attacked
the capital city of Jerusalem, the
Edomites rushed to help the enemy!
As a result, God sends Obadiah
to predict doom for the nation for
refusing to be its “brother keeper.”
Lord, You’ll Protect Your People:
The Lord says to Edom: I will cut you
down to size… You’ve been deceived
by your own pride because
you make your home high in the mountains. Who can ever reach us way up here? you ask boastfully.
But even as you build your nest
among the stars, I will bring you
crashing down (Obad 2-4)
Now you will be destroyed…
for you deserted your relatives
in Israel during their time of
greatest need. You stood aloof,
refusing to lift a finger to help
when foreign invaders came (v10-11)
The day is near when I the Lord
will judge the godless nations!
As you have done to Israel, so it
will be done to you… But Jerusalem
will become a refuge… And the people of Israel will come back to reclaim their inheritance (v15-20).
Lord, we realise the Bible warns that pride leads to destruction. And placing one’s security in any thing other than God is foolish. Only God is strong & trustworthy; only You can supply true security. Help us O Lord not to rely on self but instead recognise vulnerability and find security in You God. Amen.
Lord, Your Word says in Jas 4:17 that if one withheld help from someone in time of need, that’s sin. So sin includes not only what we do that is wrong; but also what we refuse to do that is right. Help us Lord not to be like the priest or the Levite who ignore or refuse help to those in need. Help us be more compassionate like the Good Samaritan. Amen.
Lord, You will judge and fiercely
punish all who harm Your people.
We can be confident in Your
victory; for You’re our champion
and we can trust You for help.
Help us not to despair nor give
up hope for You are In Control
and the confidence placed
in You Lord will not be in vain.
In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.