But God!
Read It
Obadiah 1:17
“But on Mount Zion will be deliverance; it will be holy, and Jacob will possess his inheritance.”
Discover It
The book of Obadiah was written after the southern kingdom of Israel called “Judah” had been conquered by the nation of Babylon. And all the while, their neighbors Edomites, relatives of the Judeans, stood aside while the capital city of Judah called “Jerusalem” was being invaded. Not only did they not help the Judeans, but they also joined the Babylonians in looting the city (Obadiah 1:10-11). So in this book of the Bible, the prophet Obadiah pronounced judgment upon the nation of Edom. They will soon regret their disloyalty. Soon the Edomites would be destroyed. But against this backdrop of war and tragedy, verse 17 of Obadiah strikes a note of hope. All is destroyed, “but God” is still in control. Mount Zion (referring to Jerusalem) will be delivered, and Jacob (referring to the nation of Judah) would again be returned to their inherited land.
Ask It
Have you ever been betrayed or been the victim of a theft? How did that feel? So how do you think the citizens of Judah felt when the Edomites turned on them and looted their land?
What should you do when you are a victim of injustice, when you are treated unfairly, and when someone steals from you?
How does a relationship with God give you confidence and victory, even in the midst of conflict, defeat, and seeming insurmountable odds?
Live It
Here’s a suggestion. Take the worst injustice you’ve ever experienced and present it to the Lord, praying that He will turn this unfairness into victory for God’s glory and your good.
Here’s another suggestion. Take the most insurmountable problem you have and in prayer, tell the Lord about it. Then, at the end of your prayer, say the words, “But God...” and anticipate that His power and creativity will prevail.
Here’s a final suggestion. Agree with your family to pray about a big issue you all are facing. Discuss possible ways that the Lord will answer your prayers and give you direction on what to do.
Pray It
Lord Jesus, I give you everything. The big and the little issues in my life. The shattered dreams, wounded hearts, and broken toys. I also give you my victories and defeats, my blessings and my challenges. All I am, good and bad, I give to you, knowing that, if I love you and desire your purpose, you will work everything in my life out for good (Romans 8:28). In your name I pray, Amen.
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