Obadiah

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

This book God has given us was written by a man that we don't really know much about. However, this book contains much wisdom concerning destruction and redemption. Here in verse 12 God commands Edom--who are Jacob's brother Esau's descendants--to not rejoice in the just destruction of Jerusalem. Throughout the Old Testament these relatives had continually been a foe to Israel. This book is God's final command that if they disobeyed His warnings there would be a final judgment that would result in the destruction of the people. This book also told the people of Judah that the destruction of Jerusalem was brought about by God, but He would not forever cast off His people. It does not offer the same promises to the Edomites because of all the years of being a foe to Israel.

The principle found in this little book is brought home to us again in the New Testament. Jesus told us to bless those who curse us. Love your enemy is not a suggestion; it's a command. It is always in our best interests to listen to God's commands not only for the benefit of His blessing, but because we love Him. Let us love not in words, but also in deeds.

Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the LORD see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him. Proverbs 24:17-18