The day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you had done, it will be done to you; your evil deeds will return upon your head" {vs.15}
The struggle that began in the womb between twin brothers Esau and Jacob, continued to be a struggle between their respective descendants. The Edomites and the Israelites.
The Edomites were stubborn to the point they refused to assist Israel, first during the time of wilderness wandering (Numbers 20:14-21) and later during a time of invasion. Both events are totally condemned by Obadiah. A little- known prophet whose name means "Worshipper or Servant of Yahweh".
Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament that contents a dramatic example of God's response to anyone who would harm his children.
Obadiah gave God's message to the Edomites. Because of their indifference to and defiance of God, their cowardice and pride, their treachery toward their relatives in Judah, they stood condemned and would be destroyed.
The book begins with the announcement that destruction was coming to Edom (vs.1-9). Despite their majestic cliffs and mountains, they were not able to escape from God's judgement.
Then in verses 10-14 Obadiah explains the reasons for this judgement and destruction: Their arrogance towards God and persecuting God's children.
The prophesy ends with a concise description of the "day of the Lord" when judgement will fall on all who have harmed God's people (verses 15-21).
I believe the key verse to the Edomites (and to us) is vs.2,3
"Behold, I will make you small among the nations [Edom]; you shall be despised exceedingly. The pride of your heart deceived you"
Obadiah's message reminds us that pride is deadly. The pride in our hearts can deceive us. Pride will cause us to mistreat other people and judgment comes as a consequence of it.
God wants us to live before Him and before others with a humble and tender heart. Pride on the other hand, whether in a nation or in an individual, will not escape God's judgement, but humility brings His blessing and favor.
For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. {Matthew 23:12}
As we read Obadiah today, let us be reminded of what it means to be God's child, under his love and protection. Be encouraged to see how God reacts to all who would attack those whom He loves.
