Obadiah delivered a chilling message to the people of Edom. Because their prideful hearts deceived them into thinking they were indestructible, the Sovereign Lord would make them small among the nations, utterly despised, and ultimately extinct as a people! God saw the Edomites gloat over their brother Israel’s misfortune and rejoice over the ruin of the people of Judah. They even sided with Israel’s enemies and then took every advantage of Israel’s losses, including taking some of their territory and possessions. God’s message was loud and clear: Do not gloat when your enemy falls…don’t let your heart rejoice over the misfortunes of others.
This smallest book of the Old Testament, just twenty-one verses in total, packs a powerful message about God’s view on pride. Here’s yet another challenge from an ancient story that prompts a few questions for us today. Upon what might you be basing your security…a hefty insurance policy or family inheritance, or perhaps a prestigious job and lucrative income? How do you respond when disaster visits someone you know, particularly someone who has wronged you or has differing views on life’s big issues? God judged the Edomites for being hateful rather than serving their brother Israelites. Have you checked your attitude toward any down-and-out folks you might know, or people groups who look different than you…and does your attitude please God?
Let’s meditate for a moment on Proverbs 4:23, letting various translations and paraphrases resonate within us:
"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."
(New International Version)
"Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life."
(New Century Version)
"Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life."
(New King James Version)
"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life."
(New Living Translation)
"Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that’s where life starts."
(The Message)
"With all vigilance guard your heart, for in it are the sources of life."
(New American Bible Revised Edition)
"Above everything else, guard your heart; for it is the source of life’s consequences."
(Complete Jewish Bible)
Prayer: Lord, 1 Corinthians 13:6 teaches us that “Love does not gloat over other people’s sins but takes its delight in the truth.” We confess that we’re prone to have unholy attitudes towards others, particularly those who have wronged us or those who have different perspectives than ours. Release us from the power of this sin! Permeate our thoughts according to Your frame of mind, and help us always to treat others the same way that Jesus would. Amen.