DON’T TAKE PLEASURE AT ANOTHER’S FALL
The prophet Obadiah, whose Hebrew name means “Servant of the LORD,” delivered a prophecy against Edom for gloating over Israel’s fall. The land of Edom was founded by Jacob’s (“Israel’s”) twin brother, Esau (Also known as “Edom”). Edom was situated south of Judah and difficult to overthrow in its mountain strongholds. However, God warned that His wrath was against Edom. Her pride and pleasure in Israel’s destruction would lead to her own demise. And unlike Israel, whom God would one day deliver and reestablish, Edom would be no more.
As the Word has said, “Pride goeth before a fall” (Prov. 16:18) and in another place, “Those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished” (Prov. 17:5). Therefore, let us be careful not to take pleasure at another’s fall, even if they have been as enemies to us. For we all rise or fall by God’s grace. Instead, let us pray for God’s will and mercy.
PRAYER: Dear Father, it is tempting for us to smile at the suffering of an enemy or one that we disagree with. Yet, while we were yet sinners, You sent Your Son to die in our place. Help us to be like You, always ready to pray and to offer Your gospel of rescue to the one who has fallen. In Jesus’ name, amen.