We first met Baruch in Chapter 36 when Jeremiah called for him to be the scribe to write down all of God’s messages. We also know that he and Jeremiah were both taken to Egypt, most probably against their wishes. Both Jeremiah and Baruch seemed to be in touch with God’s view of the situation, wanting to be obedient to the one true God.
Having received this message from the Lord long before the trek to Egypt would suggest multiple applications. Baruch, and possibly Jeremiah, would have had a shimmer of hope as they were facing a new life in Egypt (from our last reading). This promise probably also sustained Baruch when he spoke in Jeremiah’s place. God protected them then as well. I don’t think God’s promises have expiration dates.
God’s message to Baruch gave him hope. “I will give you your life as a reward wherever you go.” Despite all the devastation and death that surrounded Baruch and Jeremiah, it seems Baruch would not have to sacrifice his life because of the misbehavior of others. Life is a precious gift giving us the opportunity to share about and serve God anew each day.
Think of all the promises God has made to us through the words of Scripture. Do you have a favorite promise that you cling to when times are difficult? When we cling to God’s promises, the problems of the world lose their power over us. As Baruch apparently bemoaned his circumstances, we might find ourselves doing the same. Let these words of promise reignite your faith.
Isaiah 41:10 – “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 – “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
Matthew 11:28-29 – “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 – “Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”
Matthew 7:7 – “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.”
John 10:28 – “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me”
Proverbs 16:17 – “The path of the virtuous leads away from evil; whoever follows that path is safe.”
John 16:33 – “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
Colossians 3:24 – “Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.”
Which of these “hit the spot” for you today? There are so many more. I would love if you’d share your favorite promises in the comments.
Let’s pray … Lord, thank you for the many promises you have given in your word. Help me to find the right one to rely on each day. Your promise of eternal life for those who love you is one that never goes out of style. I am amazed at what you accomplished for me, so that we could live together forever. I am forever grateful. Your mercy continues to astound me. Help me to share that sense of wonder with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
