How often do you spend devoted time in Obadiah? Probably not often at all. Maybe because it’s only one short chapter. Maybe because it’s not even about Israel, it’s about Edom, their neighbors to the Southeast. Or maybe because it’s uncomfortable to read about God’s harsh, deadly justice against people. We sometimes forget that, although God is merciful, he also does not tolerate evil. If he did, he wouldn’t be good!
Obadiah’s prophecy of doom against the nation of Edom reminds us that sin really is a bigger deal than we think. Every unrepentant nation—not just Edom, but even us across the pond—is warned that they will reap every bit of rebellion and destruction that they sow. Scripture reminds us constantly that we don’t even do ourselves any good by sweeping our own sin under the rug and convincing ourselves it’s no big deal. God is just, and he sees all and will judge all!
But there’s hope. Just as in all biblical prophecies of doom, there’s a glint of hope. The nation of Israel will be delivered from the wrath of the day of the Lord and will come into the Lord’s kingdom at Mount Zion. Don’t worry though—that now includes those of us who are in Christ. We, the repentant people of God, will reign with the Lord as he triumphs over evil, eliminates all sin and death, and sets all things right.
Even still, it will be important that we are fully aware of God’s wrath exacting justice. Because it does not only destroy; it makes us pure. As Isaiah 26:9 says, “when your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness.” This is why prophecies like Obadiah’s are actually good news for us. God’s justice is a fire that will either consume us or beautifully refine us.
So let’s take Obadiah’s warning seriously, with trembling fear of God but also joyful anticipation. The day of the Lord is near! There are probably few things more important today than to take our sin seriously, humbly repent, and get right with God. Yet don’t forget to wait with joy. For those of us identified by grace, those of us with whom God is well-pleased, we will be delivered from evil and brought home into perfect peace and joy. Wait well for the day of the Lord!
