Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."
Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.
Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
It's evident on reading that God's word through Obadiah came soon after Babylon conquered Judah in 586BC, and took its people into exile. God condemns Edom (south of Israel and descended from Esau, Jacob's brother) for taking advantage of Judah's misfortune by handing escapees over to Babylon, occupying her towns, and taking her wealth. This foreshadows those drawing lots for Jesus' garments at the cross. We are told that it will mean destruction for Edom, and that God's people will one day occupy their land and that nearby. The principle, as so often with God's justice, is that as people do to others so it will done to them. And it reminds us that those who seek to take advantage of Christians - especially the persecuted - will one day be judged for it; whilst those Christians will inherit the earth and so all their persecutors once enjoyed. This should be a comfort when we are treated badly, enabling us to patiently endure it (Rom 12v19). As you read note what is promised.
Obadiah
Obadiah
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.
Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.