MWTM: Obadiah Part 2 – Treat Them Right

The Edom Complex was not something that just affected Edom.

Others were quick to exploit the downfall of Israel. It’s one thing for a country to receive it’s proper judgement in line with their own unfaithfulness to God. It’s one thing for that to happen. It’s another thing, however, to be quick to swoop on the downfall, disrespect and disregard those who are suffering.

Kicking people when they are down or otherwise celebrating and lavishing over the woes of others is not a sound way to conduct interactions with others. Especially knowing that rightful judgement belongs in the hands of God, it’s better to take a measured approach.

Of all the people to pick on, though, it is a big mistake to pick on the people who belong to God. Picking on the people who belong to God is picking on God and He will not take that lightly at all.

The people of Israel will be a raging fire,
    and Edom a field of dry stubble.
The descendants of Joseph will be a flame
    roaring across the field, devouring everything.
There will be no survivors in Edom.
    I, the Lord, have spoken! (Obadiah NLT)

From the vision God gave to Obadiah, it’s clear that He will always look after those who are His own. His people might neglect and disobey Him, but He won’t leave them alone. The fate of Edom would be significant indeed in terms of God’s people eventually taking over their heights as He brings them to the depths.

As with the word to a number of prophets, there is also hope for the God’s people that not only will they be restored in their enlarged space, they will be a place for others to find sanctuary. A holy place for God’s people will be established once more.

Reading the words of Obadiah applies to today in being reassured that God is true to His word to judge those who act in pride. It’s also to be sombre and reflective in how we behave to others especially those who are God’s people.

(Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash)

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

C. L. J. Dryden