“The vision of Obadiah. Thus says the Lord God concerning Edom: We have heard a report from the Lord, and a messenger has been sent among the nations: “Rise up! Let us rise against her for battle!” Behold, I will make you small among the nations; you shall be utterly despised. The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, in your lofty dwelling, who say in your heart, “Who will bring me down to the ground?” Though you soar aloft like the eagle, though your nest is set among the stars, from there I will bring you down, declares the Lord” (Obadiah 1:1-4).
In these 4 verses, we can see several things. 1) The prophet is Obadiah, whose name means Servant (Slave) of Yahweh.
2) This book of prophecy is directed to the land of Edom. This is the land where Esau, the angry brother of Jacob, settled.
3) The people of Edom are proud and self-secure. “The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, in your lofty dwelling, who say in your heart, ‘Who will bring me down to the ground?’”
4) The LORD says He can and will reach Edom to bring them down. This is an important lesson for all nations, even today. Sometimes nations or people, in general, think that God has no relevance to them, even if He exists. The true and living God has claims on ALL people on the earth.
5) Why was God angry with Edom? Because they made fun of Israel while the Babylonians were sacking Jerusalem. (See verses 10-14.)
This is a good reminder to me that the Lord measures the hearts and actions of people, including mine.
Father, please help me remember that my heart is important, not just my actions. Help me to have a pure heart. Amen.
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