Chronological Reading Plan for June 30, Obadiah 1

Today's reading is Obadiah 1. Tomorrow's readings are 2 Kings 1-4. 

Near the end of 2 Chronicles, we saw Edom, once conquered by David, rise up against Jehoshaphat and Judah. Obadiah, written sometime shortly after Syria takes Israel and perhaps as late as when the Babylonians take Jerusalem, is written as a warning to Edom and all who come against God's people. Obadiah prophesies strongly against Edom, a country populated by descendants of Jacob and Esau. 

Obadiah prophesies doom for Edom in vs 1-9. They will battle invading armies but their real enemy is the Lord who is sending enemies against them. God is sovereign, even over the godless!

Edom's sin is proclaimed in 10-14. Instead of helping their kinsmen, they attacked them when they were under siege, an act of cowardice and shame.  

Obadiah prophesies Edom's judgment in 15-21. All peoples who oppose God and His people will be defeated and their lands given to the children of God. 

This is a pertinent book for us today. the battle is the Lord's, even when we may feel surrounded, betrayed and outnumbered. God will not be mocked nor will He be opposed. Those who reject Him and His word will fall victim to his wrath. He will use everything in His creation to bring Himself glory, even those who reject Him...maybe especially those who reject Him.