Scripture:

Obadiah 1-4
1 The vision of Obadiah.
Thus says the Lord God concerning Edom —
We have heard a report from the Lord,
And an envoy has been sent among the nations saying,
"Arise and let us go against her for battle" — 
2 "Behold, I will make you small among the nations;
You are greatly despised.
3 "The arrogance of your heart has deceived you,
You who live in the clefts of the rock,
In the loftiness of your dwelling place,
Who say in your heart,
'Who will bring me down to earth?'
4 "Though you build high like the eagle,
Though you set your nest among the stars,
From there I will bring you down," declares the Lord.
NASU


Thoughts:

The Lord is bringing judgment against Edom, the descendants of Esau and historic enemies of Israel (verses 1-2).

Edom made its home in the mountains of Seir.  Its people lived in caves on high cliffs in those mountains, with its capitol Sela, later known as Petra, being partially carved out of rock.  They believed they were safe because of their fortified living, but they were mistaken.  Around roughly 582 BC, Edom was mostly driven out of their homes by either the Babylonians or the Nabatean Arabs, with those remaining being absorbed into the Nabatean culture and rule as they took over their territory.

Edom's tragic end makes clear the foolishness and fragility of man-made defenses (verses 3-4).  We work so hard to protect ourselves from calamity, but still we are metaphorically naked in this world.  What defenses are you and I trusting in?  Can they too, be overcome?


Prayer:

Lord, I put my faith in You for the protection of my family and me.  Though I seek to do what I believe is wise to prepare for the future, clearly only You can be relied upon.

Thank You that You hold the future and can be trusted.  I put my life, my future, and my family into Your mighty hands.

Amen