Scripture for Today: Obadiah 1:4  “‘Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,’ declares the Lord.”

There is nothing more regal looking than the proud eagle!  Its keen vision and powerful flight makes it stand out from other birds.  It symbolizes strength and independence.  Their nests are built in the top quarter of the tallest trees.  These nests are high and inaccessible and from that vantage point they can easily spot their prey.

There is something about being at a higher elevation that makes one feel strong and invincible.  Years ago we visited Adlerhorst, or Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s military command complex.  It was built in a beautiful mountainous area behind and underneath the Krarsberg Castle.  The eagle was a symbol of the Third Reich, but Eagle’s Nest, refers to the elevated position and commanding view.  Of course, the Lord brought down its proud former resident.

Our verse for today is a warning from the prophet, Obadiah, to Israel’s enemy, Edom.  They were feeling proud and secure, trusting in their own defenses.  Pride, or haughty eyes is something the Lord particularly hates (Prov. 6:16).  Pride sets itself up against God and leads to just about every other sin.  At the heart of every disobedience is the prideful feeling that I do not need God, that rules do not apply to me, or that I somehow know better than my Creator what is good for me!  No wonder He hates it!

I am so grateful to be forgiven and under no condemnation in Christ (Rom. 8:1).  Even so, my pride can get me in so much trouble!  How much grace I forgo by my lack of humility! (James 4:6)

Lord, help me recognize and confess my pride.  I do not want to miss out on your grace today!