DAY 229- BIG PICTURE IN A YEAR - THE LAND
Reading: Obadiah 1: 1-21
Today’s focus is on Edom. The Edomites were the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob. The Edomites were not part of the nation of Israel nor were they considered to be part of the promised line of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; they were not the people of God. Why? Esau despised the Gospel Promise given to Abraham and then to Isaac, for he considered soup more valuable! The blessing went to Jacob and his descendants once Esau sold his birth right.
When the Southern Kingdom of Judah was taken captive by Babylon in 586BC the Edomites didn’t help the Jews, but attacked the Jews who escaped and plundered their possessions. They should have offered them help for they were related by blood. Therefore God brought their civilisation to an end. Today the ruins of Petra, the capital of Edom, act as a reminder of the faithfulness of God’s promise that their home would remain uninhabited, and the haunt of jackels, owls and desert creatures. Isaiah 34:10-11 prophesied Edom’s future destruction using very interesting words; “Its smoke shall ascend forever. From generation to generation it shall lie waste; no one shall pass through it forever and ever.” Petra was conquered by Nabateans about a hundred years after Obadiah was written. It later passed into Roman hands before it became uninhabited, except by desert creatures. God keeps His promises and His threats.
Edom stands as a warning to people who make their stand against the LORD and the apple of His eye; His people.
Prayer:
Dear Father, we read of Edom’s desolation with sober reflection. Thank You that You avenge the apple of Your eye, Your people and that you are true to Your word. Help us not to become too attached to Babylon the Great, this world system with all its land, people and riches, opposed to God. Amen
FOR THE FAMILY
Explain the study in an age-appropriate way then watch this short video about