December 13

Obadiah 1:1-21; Revelation 4:1-11; Psalm 132:1-18; Proverbs 29:24-25

There is a song in the Disney film “Newsies” where a teen actor proclaims that he is “the king of New York.” He got his picture in the newspaper and feels like he can do anything. Nothing is impossible for the king. Similar attitudes of believing we are the ultimate authority over our lives are inherent in our broken hearts. Where we need to arrive is at the place of understanding that God alone is king.

Obadiah announces to the people of Edom that they are going to be judged by the true king, God. He ends his short book with the phrase, “The kingdom will be the Lord’s.” Now there are rebels, including us, who fail to submit completely to God’s will and authority, but a day will come when his kingdom will be fully installed. He will rule over all of creation. As those before God’s throne in heaven proclaim, “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things…”
Revelation gives us a glimpse of God as he sits enthroned. He is the only true king over us and all creation. Therefore, we are to acknowledge his rule, reign, and lordship over our lives. Psalm 132 provides a beautiful picture of this attitude. As people undertook their ascent to Jerusalem for various festivals they would recite this psalm and train themselves to long to worship God. To worship the one who is enthroned, the same one we are to worship as well, the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Father God, help me to recognize you as king over all of my life. Help me to submit all of my life to you. Amen.

Question: Where is God not ruling over your life and how can you better submit to him?

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