“Because Ammon/Moab/Edom/Philistia/Tyre said…I will…And they will know that I am the LORD.”

In the midst of Israel’s disciple, it’s neighbors are getting cocky; revealing in their shame, plotting vengeance, and capitalizing on weakness. The LORD says, “No” to all that. He is controlling this situation and He can add discipline anyone who wants to be an opportunist about it.

This convicts me about times when my enemies have gone through a trial. When I think I see someone “getting what they deserve” I get a surge or exaltation in my heart and maybe even sing a little Dashboard Confessional to myself. Vindicated! I am selfish! I am wrong! I am right! I swear I’m right! Swear I knew it all along!

This is not my place. The discipline of the LORD is not for my entertainment.

“But do not gloat over the day of your brother in the day of his misfortune; do not rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their ruin; do not boast in the day of distress.” (Obadiah‬ ‭1:12‬)

We must remember humility. We all need grace, we all need mercy. I’m challenged to check my attitude. Do I hope people “get what they deserve?” Or do I wish for others the grace I wish for myself?

HE is the LORD, judge and redeemer. How can we check our hearts on this today?

-Bethany