Definition: Neither shouldest thou have stood in the crossway, to cut off those of his that did escape; neither shouldest thou have delivered up those of his that did remain in the day of distress.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Obadiah 1:14. It's a really powerful and somewhat sobering message about God’s protection and how we should behave in difficult times. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is warning us to not be overly aggressive or forceful in trying to stop people from fleeing or escaping something bad. It suggests that God wants to protect those who are struggling, even if it means being cautious and avoiding unnecessary conflict. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Neither shouldst thou have stood in the crossway…” – Imagine a crossway is like a place where you could choose to go either way. This part refers to not taking a dangerous or aggressive stance against people who are fleeing something bad – perhaps because they’re facing hardship, danger, or injustice. It's about avoiding being overly confrontational. “…to cut off those of his that did escape;” – This means God is protecting people who are trying to leave something difficult behind. It's not about stopping them completely, but rather ensuring they have a way out and aren’t left vulnerable or in danger. Think of it like a shepherd watching over sheep – he prevents them from wandering off into trouble. “neither shouldst thou have delivered up those of his that did remain in the day of distress.” – This is the crucial part. It means God isn't actively intervening to stop people from continuing their struggle, but He will intervene when things get really tough and dangerous. He’s protecting those who are remaining through hardship. What does it mean practically? This verse encourages us to: Be patient: Don't rush into situations where you might need to take a strong stand. Offer support: Even if you can't solve the problem completely, offering kindness and compassion is important. Focus on helping those who are struggling: Rather than trying to control or punish people, let them have a chance to find their own way out. In essence, Obadiah 1:14 is about God’s unwavering protection and concern for those who are facing difficult challenges. It's a reminder that He cares deeply for us, even when we feel vulnerable. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of situations where this verse might be relevant? Talk about the context of the book Obadiah and its message?