**Prayer Group Update** 
Let's lift up 
Prayers for protection and blessings for 
Pray for 
Who else would you like us to pray for? Share your thoughts! 
Tang Wei Ping
Humble Prayer Warrior
Jeremiah 49:19: Behold, he shall come up like a lion from the swelling of Jordan against the habitation of the strong: but I will suddenly make him run away from her: and who is a chosen man, that I may appoint over her? for who is like me? and who will appoint me the time? and who is that shepherd that will stand before me?
Historical Context: Edom was a nation located in the mountainous region southeast of Israel. The Edomites, descendants of Esau (Genesis 36:1), had a history of animosity toward Israel, often taking advantage of Israel’s weakness. They trusted in their fortified cities and rugged terrain for protection, believing they were secure from external threats. However, God’s judgment was announced through prophets like Jeremiah and Obadiah because of Edom’s pride, arrogance, and mistreatment of Israel. The “lion” imagery in this verse reflects the way foreign nations, such as Babylon, would act as instruments of God’s judgment, swiftly and powerfully overthrowing Edom.
Theological Implications: God’s Sovereignty Over Nations – This verse demonstrates God’s ultimate authority over all nations, including their leaders and armies. No one can oppose His will or thwart His plans. Judgment Comes to the Proud – Edom’s confidence in their strength and defenses was misplaced. This verse reminds us that pride leads to destruction (Proverbs 16:18). God’s Power is Unmatched – The rhetorical questions highlight God’s supremacy. He alone is the Creator and Ruler of all things, and no human power can stand against Him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian: This verse reminds Christians of God’s ultimate authority and power. It challenges us to examine where we place our trust. Like Edom, we may be tempted to rely on our own strength, resources, or position, but this verse warns that only God is truly secure. It also encourages humility. The rhetorical questions in this verse remind us that no one can compare to God. When we face challenges or opposition, this truth brings comfort: the God who rules over nations and kings is also our protector and provider. Finally, this verse is a call to repentance. Edom’s judgment serves as a warning that pride and rebellion against God lead to destruction. For Christians, this is a reminder to stay rooted in obedience and dependence on God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God: God’s judgment on Edom reveals His commitment to justice and righteousness. While His power and authority may seem intimidating, they are ultimately an expression of His love. God opposes pride and arrogance because they lead to destruction and separation from Him. At the same time, God’s sovereignty is a source of comfort. Knowing that no one can challenge God’s plans assures us that He is in control, even when the world seems chaotic. His power is a reminder of His ability to protect and provide for those who trust in Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is the ultimate expression of God’s power and authority: Matthew 28:18 – Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” He reigns as the sovereign King over all creation. John 10:11 – Jesus is the “good shepherd” who lays down His life for His sheep. Unlike human shepherds who cannot stand against God, Jesus is both Shepherd and Savior. Colossians 1:16-17 – “All things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Jesus holds ultimate authority over all nations and powers. Revelation 19:15-16 – Jesus is portrayed as the victorious King who brings judgment and establishes His kingdom. Through Jesus, we see God’s power used not only for judgment but also for salvation. He provides a way for us to escape the judgment we deserve and to live under His loving rule.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion: How does this verse challenge us to trust in God’s power rather than our own strength or resources? In what ways does Edom’s pride reflect attitudes or behaviors that we see in the world today—or in our own life? How can this verse encourage us to approach God with humility and reverence? How does Jesus, as the Lion of Judah, give us confidence in God’s justice and mercy? How can we live in a way that reflects trust in God’s authority and submission to His plans?
Prayer for Obadiah 1:4: “Though you seem to soar like an eagle and make your nest among the stars, even from there I will bring you down. [This is]*The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord's declaration.”
Praying through Obadiah 1:4: Our prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the prophecy of Obadiah which helps us to reflect on the dangers of pride, arrogance, vengefulness, and a bitter heart of unforgiveness. May we never forget that a haughty soul will be brought crashing down from its lofty heights, in God's time and in His way. In the same way, those with a humble of heart will be lifted up. Help us to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly before You, all the days of our life, for Your greater praise and glory. This we ask in Jesus' name, AMEN.
Historical Context: Edom was a nation located in the mountainous region southeast of Israel. The Edomites, descendants of Esau (Genesis 36:1), had a history of animosity toward Israel, often taking advantage of Israel’s weakness. They trusted in their fortified cities and rugged terrain for protection, believing they were secure from external threats. However, God’s judgment was announced through prophets like Jeremiah and Obadiah because of Edom’s pride, arrogance, and mistreatment of Israel. The “lion” imagery in this verse reflects the way foreign nations, such as Babylon, would act as instruments of God’s judgment, swiftly and powerfully overthrowing Edom.
Theological Implications: God’s Sovereignty Over Nations – This verse demonstrates God’s ultimate authority over all nations, including their leaders and armies. No one can oppose His will or thwart His plans. Judgment Comes to the Proud – Edom’s confidence in their strength and defenses was misplaced. This verse reminds us that pride leads to destruction (Proverbs 16:18). God’s Power is Unmatched – The rhetorical questions highlight God’s supremacy. He alone is the Creator and Ruler of all things, and no human power can stand against Him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian: This verse reminds Christians of God’s ultimate authority and power. It challenges us to examine where we place our trust. Like Edom, we may be tempted to rely on our own strength, resources, or position, but this verse warns that only God is truly secure. It also encourages humility. The rhetorical questions in this verse remind us that no one can compare to God. When we face challenges or opposition, this truth brings comfort: the God who rules over nations and kings is also our protector and provider. Finally, this verse is a call to repentance. Edom’s judgment serves as a warning that pride and rebellion against God lead to destruction. For Christians, this is a reminder to stay rooted in obedience and dependence on God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God: God’s judgment on Edom reveals His commitment to justice and righteousness. While His power and authority may seem intimidating, they are ultimately an expression of His love. God opposes pride and arrogance because they lead to destruction and separation from Him. At the same time, God’s sovereignty is a source of comfort. Knowing that no one can challenge God’s plans assures us that He is in control, even when the world seems chaotic. His power is a reminder of His ability to protect and provide for those who trust in Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ: Jesus Christ is the ultimate expression of God’s power and authority: Matthew 28:18 – Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” He reigns as the sovereign King over all creation. John 10:11 – Jesus is the “good shepherd” who lays down His life for His sheep. Unlike human shepherds who cannot stand against God, Jesus is both Shepherd and Savior. Colossians 1:16-17 – “All things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Jesus holds ultimate authority over all nations and powers. Revelation 19:15-16 – Jesus is portrayed as the victorious King who brings judgment and establishes His kingdom. Through Jesus, we see God’s power used not only for judgment but also for salvation. He provides a way for us to escape the judgment we deserve and to live under His loving rule.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion: How does this verse challenge us to trust in God’s power rather than our own strength or resources? In what ways does Edom’s pride reflect attitudes or behaviors that we see in the world today—or in our own life? How can this verse encourage us to approach God with humility and reverence? How does Jesus, as the Lion of Judah, give us confidence in God’s justice and mercy? How can we live in a way that reflects trust in God’s authority and submission to His plans?
Prayer for Obadiah 1:4: “Though you seem to soar like an eagle and make your nest among the stars, even from there I will bring you down. [This is]*The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the Lord's declaration.”
Praying through Obadiah 1:4: Our prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the prophecy of Obadiah which helps us to reflect on the dangers of pride, arrogance, vengefulness, and a bitter heart of unforgiveness. May we never forget that a haughty soul will be brought crashing down from its lofty heights, in God's time and in His way. In the same way, those with a humble of heart will be lifted up. Help us to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly before You, all the days of our life, for Your greater praise and glory. This we ask in Jesus' name, AMEN.
