Poor Jeremiah! His prophetic vision of what is coming has left him devastated. I can’t imagine what it would be like for my heart to “writhe in pain.” Looking back on my life, there have been plenty of bumps, but living through something like what Jeremiah envisions would be totally new for me. For most of us!
There are plenty of atrocities happening around the world rousting people out of their homes, exiling them to foreign lands as refugees. But the one Jeremiah describes is being orchestrated by God because of the people’s bad choices. The magnitude of seeing God’s predictions come true, being homeless and left behind. Terrifying!
From what we read, it sounds like Jeremiah will get swept up in the attack just like those who have deserted God. Bitter tears are likely burning in his eyes. Not from regret but from the grief of losing all that he had ever known because of the actions of others. I can almost hear the battle cries ringing out!
The Lord’s admonishment in verse 22 is quite something. Hearing our own heavenly father call his children “foolish” and “stupid” hits close to home. I know the pain of being called stupid by another human being. It really messes with your self-confidence and feeling of worthiness. But it aptly describes the behavior God’s children were exhibiting.
What struck me in God’s rebuke was when he said, they “do not know me.” They certainly didn’t or they would have desired to please God at every turn. If we seek to know God, we will be given understanding. The Holy Spirit does that. Without the Holy Spirit, we are helpless.
How well do you know God? Are you so crazy for him that you could endure any suffering just to remain faithful?
The words of 1 Peter 4:12-14 can help illustrate how hard it can be to be a believer. “Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. If you are insulted because you bear the name of Christ, you will be blessed, for the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you.”
What did you take away from today’s message?
Let’s pray … Lord, I am so grateful for the opportunity to get to know you each day by spending time in your word. I look forward to each message you have for me. Forgive me for how I fall short when my behavior is foolish and stupid. Thank you for loving me and sending your Spirit to give me peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
