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29th January 2025

Choosing Compassion

. . . You should not have rejoiced over the children of Judah in

the day of their destruction . . .

 Obadiah 1:12



Today's Bible Reading: Obadiah 1:8–15.


The internet site 'Youtube' has on it many home videos about peoples humerus mishaps; People skiing off rooftops, crashing into objects and slipping on ice, and-so-on.  


Funny home videos are not, in themselves, a bad thing, but they can reveal something about ourselves: we can be prone to laugh at or take advantage of the hardships of others. One such story is recorded in the book of Obadiah about two rival nations, Israel and Edom. When God saw it was right to punish Israel for their sin, Edom rejoiced. They took advantage of the Israelites, looted their cities, thwarted their escape and supported their enemies (Obadiah 1:13-14). A word of warning came through the prophet Obadiah to Edom: “You should not have rejoiced over your brother in the day of his misfortune,” for “the day of the Lord is near for all nations” (v 12 & 15).


When we see the challenges or suffering of others, even if it seems that they have brought it upon themselves, we must choose compassion over pride. We are not in a position to judge others. Only God can do that. The kingdoms of this world belongs to Him (v 21), He alone holds the power of justice and mercy.

Prayer

Merciful God, forgive me for my feelings of self-righteousness. Thank You for Your justice and mercy. In Christ's name. Amen.






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