Obadiah 1:15 (KJV)
For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head.
Prophet Obadiah, the briefest text in the Old Testament consisting of a single chapter, presents a prophetic indictment against Edom, a nation descended from Esau. The backdrop of this prophecy is the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem, during which the Edomites collaborated with the Babylonians by capturing and betraying fleeing Israelites. Obadiah condemns Edom for their opportunistic and hostile actions, highlighting their prideful disposition and schadenfreude in response to the suffering of their Israelite relatives. The Edomites exhibited a callous disregard for their kin by taking pleasure in the misfortune of Judah, engaging in looting and violence against Israelite refugees. This behavior was particularly egregious given the familial ties between Edom and Israel, which incited divine displeasure. The prophet emphasizes the shortsightedness of Edom’s celebration, warning that the same God who enacted judgment upon Judah will also hold Edom accountable for their transgressions during the impending Day of the Lord. Edom’s false sense of security, attributed to their geographically advantageous position in the highlands, starkly contrasts with the theological assertion that God opposes the proud and those who act with hostility toward His people. Obadiah’s prophecy serves as a stark warning: the judgment meted out to Edom will mirror their own actions against Israel, highlighting the principle of retributive justice. Edom’s fate, therefore, is a direct consequence of their treatment of others in their time of need, illustrating the inextricable link between divine justice and human conduct.
Our anchored Scripture is a powerful reminder of the certainty of God’s judgment and the principle of reaping what we sow. It serves as a warning that our actions have consequences and that God’s justice will prevail. This principle can be seen as both a warning and an encouragement. It warns us to consider our actions carefully, knowing they have repercussions. At the same time, it encourages those who strive to live righteously, assuring them that justice will ultimately be served. Galatians 6:7 says, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” This Kingdom principle applies to everything about life. The harvest we get is a direct result of the seeds we plant. Essentially, what we reap in this life can result from what we sow. The seeds we sow will determine how far we go in life. Every act is a seed that is definitely going to produce a harvest. For those who declare in their hearts that there is no God, a day of reckoning is undoubtedly on the horizon. The day of the LORD is approaching for all nations, and on that day, individuals will face the consequences of their actions.
Beloved, life is a seed. Whatever you do on earth, good or bad, are seeds; you will reap its harvest in time and eternity, for seeds produce after their kind. In other words, your actions today will deliver the impact of tomorrow. You have someone in your life who will have some needs. It is your responsibility to meet that need as much as possible. Doing this is showing others the love of Christ, just as Christ has shown His love to you. As you show love to others in meeting needs, God will meet your needs. Instead of cutting others down or ignoring them, you are to show God’s love and build them up in Christ Jesus. There will always be someone who mistreats you or is in great need that you can help. Allow God to work through you rather than judge you for your lack of actions or evil actions toward others. God will shower blessings upon you as you pour blessings upon others, including your enemies. Today, make a conscious effort to sow seeds of righteousness. Be intentional in your acts of kindness, words of encouragement, and efforts to help others. Trust that in due time, you will reap a harvest of blessings. Reflect on your actions and attitudes and where you need to seek forgiveness or make amends. Live in a way that reflects God’s righteousness and justice, knowing He sees and remembers our deeds. Remember, God sees your efforts and faithfully rewards those who diligently seek to live according to His will.
O Lord, guide my beliefs and help me sow good seeds in Jesus’ Name.