In what ways can we ensure our actions align with God's will, unlike Edom? Edom’s Tragic Warning—Jeremiah 49:13 “ ‘For by Myself I have sworn,’ declares the LORD, ‘that Bozrah will become a horror, a reproach, a ruin, and a curse; and all her towns will be ruins forever.’ ” What Went Wrong with Edom? • Prideful self-reliance instead of humble dependence on God (Obadiah 1:3-4). • Rejoicing over Israel’s distress and refusing to help a brother nation (Obadiah 1:12-14). • Trusting alliances, wisdom, and wealth rather than the LORD (Jeremiah 49:7; Psalm 20:7). • Ignoring repeated prophetic calls to repent (Amos 1:11-12). Marks of a Life Aligned with God’s Will • Humble trust: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) • Scripture-guided decisions: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • Active obedience: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) • Spirit-led dependence: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) • Love for others: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8) • Fruit that remains: “Whoever abides in Me and I in him will bear much fruit.” (John 15:5) Practical Daily Habits 1. Start each day in the Word—read, meditate, and note one clear takeaway for action. 2. Pray for God’s kingdom first, then lay out your plans and invite His correction (Matthew 6:33). 3. Ask the Spirit to search your heart for hidden pride or resentment (Psalm 139:23-24). 4. Seek wise counsel before major decisions (Proverbs 15:22). 5. Keep short accounts with God—confess sin promptly and accept His cleansing (1 John 1:9). 6. Serve someone quietly and sacrificially each week; love counters self-centeredness. 7. Review the day at night: Where did I follow the Spirit? Where did I resist? Resolve to obey tomorrow. Living in Humble Obedience, Not Edomite Defiance Edom shows how pride hardens hearts and invites judgment. By treasuring God’s Word, walking in daily submission, and loving others, we stay under His favor and avoid the ruin that came to Bozrah. May every choice we make reflect the Lord we claim to follow. |
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