Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, but it contains important lessons on the consequences of pride, the proper response to others' misfortunes, trusting in God to avenge wrongs, and the promise of a Savior. The rift between Jacob and Esau described in Genesis led to historical enmity between their descendents. For example, when God freed the Israelites (Jacob's descendents) from Egyptian slavery, the Edomites (Esau's descendents) would not allow them passage through their land (Numbers 20:14-21). Through Obadiah, God pronounced judgment on the Edomites for this and for their gloating over the later adversity Judah experienced (Obadiah 1:12). This passage and others in the Bible show that we're not to be joyful over others' misfortunes (Proverbs 24:17-18;
1 John 3:17). Obadiah also contains a warning against pride in God's chastisement of the Edomites for their pride (Obadiah 1:3-4). This is in line with many other Scriptures that condemn pride
(Proverbs 8:13, 16:18, 29:23;
2 Chronicles 26:16-20; Daniel 4:31-32). Jesus taught the importance of humility (Luke 14:11). Obadiah and other parts of Scripture also teach that vengeance belongs to God (Obadiah 1:15; cf. Deuteronomy 32:35). Scripture shows that believers should never take personal vengeance (Romans 12:19). Finally, Obadiah alludes to the hope found in Christ, much like many Old Testament passages (Obadiah 1:21).
"When will I ever use this?" Did you ever think that about high school algebra class? Or maybe it popped into your mind after inheriting your aunt's porcelain frog collection. It could be something your co-worker blurted out after watching the eighth corporate training video.
But have you ever asked it about a book of the Bible? Certain books might seem so specific to a historical moment that they may initially seem to have no relevance to your life here and now.
But you'll miss a lot if that's your narrow point of view. Take Obadiah, the shortest book of the Old Testament. For such a small book, it reminds us of some lessons that we all need to keep at the forefront of our minds every day—lessons about pride, God's sovereignty, our attitude toward others, and our hope in Christ.
Obadiah reminds us that some of the greatest spiritual dangers are not always obvious sins but subtle attitudes of the heart. Pride can quietly convince us that we are self-sufficient, bitterness can tempt us to celebrate when those who have hurt us fail, and the desire for revenge can consume our thoughts. Yet God calls His people to a different way—to walk humbly, show compassion even to those who oppose us, and trust Him to bring about perfect justice in His time. Instead of carrying resentment or trying to settle every score, we can rest in the confidence that God sees every wrong and will judge righteously. Most importantly, Obadiah points us to Jesus, whose kingdom we live for and is coming to ultimately triumph over evil. His grace enables us to respond to others with humility, mercy, and hope. These are not lessons reserved for an ancient nation—they are habits every follower of Christ is called to practice.
When will you ever use those lessons? Every day.
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