Day 240

2 Kings 25:22-26; Jeremiah 40:7-41:18; Lamentations 5:1-22; Obadiah.  “Compassionate Response”

         When hurricane Katrina leveled the gulf coast and nearly destroyed the entire city of New Orleans, I heard someone comment on how they felt the city was being judged because of the excessive sin it promotes.  Now, I do not pretend to know why God allowed that hurricane and the massive damage that resulted, but I do know that it is not our position to sit back and gloat or to pass judgment even if God is using the disaster to judge or discipline.
         This was precisely what Edom did to Israel when God’s judgment was carried out by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.  Because Edom refused to act with compassion towards Israel, God communicated His judgment on them through Obadiah.
         So, even if someone is enduring consequences brought on by their own actions, our response is still to extend compassion and mercy.

General Questions for each day:
Summarize the day’s Bible passage in your own words.
What thoughts, actions, attitudes or beliefs are addressed in the passage?
How is the Holy Spirit leading you to apply this passage to your life today?