Thought from today’s Bible reading from Obadiah 1; Psalm 82-83.
Obadiah prophesied of the coming destruction of Edom because of their sin. They would be ransacked (v. 6), overpowered (v. 7), and slaughtered (v. 9).
Yet Edom, in their arrogance, refused to believe that such destruction could come upon them. They believed they were secure in their position and that no harm could befall them. While they were in a good strategic position “in the clefts of the rock” (v. 3) to defend against attacks, they were no match for God.
“‘The arrogance of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rock, in the loftiness of your dwelling place, who say in your heart, “Who will bring me down to earth?” Though you build high like the eagle, though you set your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,’ declares the Lord” (Obadiah 3-4).
Their arrogance deceived them, causing them to think they had no reason to correct their sin for fear of divine punishment. Because of this, God would bring them down.
We can fall into a similar trap today if we act arrogantly. Each one of us can sin, fall from grace, and receive God’s punishment. The Scriptures are clear with these warnings:
“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling” (Proverbs 16:18).
“Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12).
Humility leads one to accept God’s rebuke, make correction, and serve the Lord. Pride causes one to reject God’s rebuke, remain in sin, and continue in rebellion against the Lord. Let us not be arrogant like Edom but be humble before God so we can receive His reward, not His wrath.
Tomorrow’s reading: Obadiah 1; Psalm 82-83
[I’m using the Chronological reading plan on the Bible Gateway website if you’d like to follow along, too.]
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