Scripture in Action

Aneel Aranha is an author, preacher, and evangelist who has spoken to hundreds of thousands of people around the world. You can find a huge selection of his reflections, articles, sermons, songs and other resources on his app.

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Scripture in Action

Day 207

October 15, 2025 • Aneel Aranha • Season 3 • Episode 207

0:00 | 19:10

Explore how God opposes the proud but cares for the humble through Obadiah, Jeremiah 40-42, Psalm 147, and 1 Peter 5, discovering the importance of genuinely seeking and following His guidance.

Day 207 – Asking With Our Minds Made Up

Obadiah
Jeremiah 40–42
Psalm 147
1 Peter 5

Have you ever asked a friend for advice when you'd already decided? You weren't really looking for wisdom. You were looking for a yes. Today's readings show how easily we do the same thing with God. After Jerusalem falls, a frightened group of survivors comes to Jeremiah. Pray for us, they say. Whether the answer is favorable or unfavorable, we will obey the Lord. Ten days later, the answer comes. Stay in the land. Don't be afraid. Don't go down to Egypt. But Jeremiah can see their hearts. Their minds were made up before they ever prayed, and he tells them it was a fatal mistake. Obadiah shows a different problem. The nation of Edom stood at a distance and gloated while Jerusalem fell. God tells them, "The pride of your heart has deceived you." Psalm 147 reminds us that the Lord delights in those who fear him and hope in his unfailing love. And Peter says it plainly. God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Taken together, these readings point to the one road both groups missed. It's the road of humility.

What connects these readings is this. Real humility means coming to God with an open hand. It means being ready to obey, even when his answer upends the plans you've already made.

How can we put that into practice today?

First, pick one decision you've been praying about. Be honest with yourself about the answer you're secretly hoping for. Then pray the survivors' words, and mean them this time. Whether it's favorable or unfavorable, Lord, I will obey.

Second, think of someone whose setback you've been quietly glad about. Maybe a rival, a difficult coworker, or a relative who hurt you. This week, do one kind thing for them, or pray for God's blessing on them by name.

Third, tonight, bring your worries to God one at a time. As you name each one, say out loud, "You care for me," and let it go. Peter tells us to cast all our anxiety on him, because he cares for us.

Before the day gets busy, remember this. God guides the people who want to be led, not the people who just want him to agree.

Thank you for joining me today. May God give you an open hand, a humble heart, and the peace of knowing he cares for you. Until tomorrow, ask him honestly and follow him fully.