August 13, 2023 - Obadiah

Obadiah, only one chapter in the book. Israel had many enemies throughout her history. The conflict with Edom started back with the tensions between Jacob and Esau (the Edomites were the descendants of Esau). Reflecting on Obadiah’s message to Edom, we discover important directions in prayer.

Edom has become arrogant and presumptuous. The Lord will humble Edom. In particular, the Lord singles out “the wise ones” and the warriors of Edom. These are those who are held in highest esteem. They will fall the farthest. And, so, we pray: “Lord, we have so much. You have given us so much. Let your blessings to us never go to our heads and make us proud or presumptuous. Grant us humility and give us grateful hearts, always.”

Edom gloated over the misfortunes of the people of Judah. For this, Edom would be destroyed. And, so, we pray: “Lord, keep me from hating those who are opposed to us, who might do us wrong. As believers, we are to love our enemies and to pray for them. This is hard, but lead us always to do so.”

“The day of the Lord is near” (15). God’s judgment against his enemies is not far off, nor is the exaltation and blessing of his people far off. And, so, we pray: “Lord, keep our minds stayed on this, that Jesus will return soon. Let that assurance be for us solace, when we are troubled, and great encouragement and expectancy, as we look for our Savior to return.”

Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray;

This is my heart-cry day unto day;

I long to know Thy will and Thy way;

Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray.

Living in Thee, Lord, and Thou in me;

Constant abiding, this is my plea;

Grant me Thy power, boundless and free:

Power with men and power with Thee. -- Albert Simpson Reitz (1928)