PODCAST
Security: The False and the True
February 14th, 2014
Obadiah 1:1-7
The ancient city of Petra (Sela) is one of the most visited sites for Holy Land tourists. The name “Petra” means rock. It is believed to be the place where Moses “brought water out of the rock.” About 1445 BC, when the Hebrew children made their exodus from Egypt, Petra was occupied by the Edomites. Because of the sandstone strata and the high cliffs, it was well fortified. Dwellings, cut out of the sandstone, provided true security by any standard.
Challenge to Holy Living
The Edomites were proud of their well-designed fortress. But the pride regarding their security was false as God appraised it (v. 3b). God spoke an eloquent and poetic word through Obadiah: “Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down” (v. 4). False security is replaced by true security when God’s people are faithful to Him and rely on His strength and protection alone.
Petra could have been a holy fortress had the Edomites turned to God, and the rock (Petra) could have been secure in the gushing waters of God’s grace and favor.
Author: Richard H. Neiderhiser
Tags: God
February 14th, 2014 at 9:27 am
Apartment buildings are also an example of offering a false sense of security. While they have people close by some of those same people may rob or harm you.