Topical Bible: The Stars: (Setting the Nest Amongst) Pride and Carnal Security

◄ The Stars: (Setting the Nest Amongst) Pride and Carnal Security ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the imagery of setting one's nest among the stars is a powerful metaphor for pride and carnal security. This concept is vividly illustrated in the book of Obadiah, where the prophet delivers a message of judgment against Edom. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, are chastised for their arrogance and false sense of security. Obadiah 1:4 declares, "Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, even from there I will bring you down, declares the LORD."

Pride and Its Consequences

The metaphor of setting one's nest among the stars signifies an elevated sense of self-reliance and invulnerability. In the ancient Near Eastern context, stars were often associated with the divine and the unreachable. By claiming to dwell among them, the Edomites exhibited a hubristic attitude, believing themselves to be beyond the reach of divine judgment. This pride is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, where human arrogance is consistently met with divine opposition. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."

The Bible consistently teaches that pride leads to downfall. The Edomites' trust in their fortified cities and strategic mountain strongholds gave them a false sense of security. However, their reliance on earthly power and wisdom was misplaced. The prophet Obadiah's message serves as a reminder that no human achievement or position can shield one from the sovereignty of God.

Carnal Security and Its Illusions

Carnal security refers to the reliance on worldly means for safety and prosperity, neglecting the spiritual and eternal aspects of life. The Edomites' confidence in their geographical advantages and alliances exemplifies this misplaced trust. In the New Testament, Jesus addresses similar attitudes in the parable of the rich fool, who stored up earthly wealth without regard for his spiritual state. Luke 12:20 recounts God's response: "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?'"

The Bible encourages believers to place their trust in God rather than in temporal circumstances. Psalm 20:7 states, "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." This verse underscores the futility of relying on human strength and resources, which are ultimately transient and unreliable.

A Call to Humility and Faith

The lesson of setting one's nest among the stars is a call to humility and faith. Believers are urged to recognize their dependence on God and to seek His guidance and protection. James 4:10 advises, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This humility is not a sign of weakness but a recognition of God's supreme authority and provision.

In conclusion, the imagery of setting the nest among the stars serves as a cautionary tale against pride and carnal security. It reminds believers of the importance of humility, faith, and reliance on God. By acknowledging our limitations and placing our trust in the Lord, we align ourselves with His will and experience true security and peace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Obadiah 1:4
Though you exalt yourself as the eagle, and though you set your nest among the stars, there will I bring you down, said the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Holy War,
... to amaze The people, set them on the stars to gaze ... new-modelling the town; and so
he does, setting up one ... and his wisdom, he was preserved in being amongst them. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ...
... that such things could not possibly be found amongst them that ... said, I thought I
should die in my nest; but I ... tell how to abase us, and can hide pride from man ...
/.../bunyan/grace abounding to the chief of sinners/grace abounding to the chief.htm

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
... time we see them, we shall find a nest of honey ... stay away; and the more I went amongst
them, the ... both from Satan, mine own heart, and carnal acquaintance; but ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/grace abounding to the chief.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... her uncertain state in this world; the stars are types ... of sin; wherefore let such
as pride themselves therein ... it is usual for them, even by setting their hearts ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm