Here’s the “out” for the royal family. If only the king had heard this simple message of how the wrongs could be made right. “Give justice each morning to the people you judge! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors.” I can just imagine the abuse of the hierarchy that was happening at the time Jeremiah spoke these words.
No matter when God was delivering this message, he wanted the leaders of his people to be just. The temptation to abuse the power given to them goes without saying. We see how powerful people in our day take advantage of those less fortunate. It’s almost despicable that such social order chasms still exist.
Jeremiah speaks to people who believed they were safe. That being the case, it makes sense that they would hesitate to change their ways. We know from being on this side of history how shallow their sense of security really was. Those folks were relying on their own history showing how time and time again God would rescue his people. Why should they think anything had changed?
Sometimes we can be led astray as well, believing that all is well. What do you rely on in terms of your salvation? Some people say, “I’m a good person” or “I do good things for others.” That’s great! But being good or doing good has nothing to do with salvation. When we do those things, it’s only a reflection of who we belong to. It helps to grasp the fact we have been chosen by God “for such a time as this.” It’s time to embrace that the road may not always be smooth and predictable.
Our sense of security lies in Jesus. The people hearing Jeremiah’s words were facing an abrupt change to their reality of life. They didn’t have the assurance of new life that Jesus gives us. They didn’t have the freedom that being alive in Christ provides. They were lost in their oblivion. Sometimes I wonder if we can get lost there, too.
When we place our confidence in the world, we can only be let down and disappointed. Jesus never disappoints. His peace and grace transcend all real-world experiences we could ever imagine. Nurturing our relationship with Jesus should be our number one focus. Proverbs 3:26 says, “for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.” Our rescue is right there in Scripture.
Are you feeling secure in your faith and future? What questions are on your mind? Bring them to Jesus.
Let’s pray … Lord, I feel so safe and secure in your arms. I could spend hours there, letting the troubles of the day just pass me by. You have called me into service. Help me be effective in sharing your message with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
