August 28 - Lamentations 5:1-22, Obadiah 1:1-21, 2 Kings 25:22-26, Jeremiah 40:7-41:18

Good morning everyone,

This morning we begin with the final chapter in Lamentations then on to Obadiah, the prophet, who brings a message of God’s judgement against the nation of Edom. But who are the Edomites? Well let me tell you :-) The Edomites were the descendants of Esau, twin brother to Jacob, son of Isaac and grandson to Abraham. They lived in a rocky area southeast of Israel which is modern day Jordan, their capitol was Sela, now called Petra. The Edomites were a proud and arrogant people who often would join forces with whom ever was fighting against Judah just because they did not like them, many times enslaving Israel’s fugitives. God will now have the last word on that. 

In verses 10-14 God lays out the exact reasons for Edom’s punishment and in verse 18 clearly states that there will be no survivors, the Edomites were the only ones not promised any mercy, however, God did promise to protect His people from complete destruction. Edom is an example to all the nations that are hostile to Israel, it will not end pretty for them. Similarly we cannot allow ourselves to become so self-absorbed that we neglect to help God’s people, this is sin. In Deuteronomy, God calls Israel the “apple of His eye” which is a term of endearment. God adds a blessing to those nations and people who bless Israel and a curse on those who curse Israel. Yikes! Do blessings and cursings still apply today? I, in my humble opinion, say yes to that since we read in Malachi, “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.” God did not put a timeline or expiration date on His covenant with Israel.

As we have studied the Old Testament I have grown quite a heart for Israel, for Gods chosen. It hurts my heart that Jerusalem is anything but peaceful right now, that someone is always wanting to take a pot shot at her, however,the King of Peace is coming, even so, Christ Jesus come quickly. Right? Psalm 122:6 says, “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May those who love you be secure.” Friends, that is my prayer and I hope you will join me in praying for His Kingdom to come and for the peace of Jerusalem and for Israel. Amen?

Have a great day and to God be the glory.

God bless you all …..