Day 230 – Jeremiah 38-40, Psalm 74, 79

Talking Points

• Are we prepared for God’s Word to be viewed as intolerant, unloving, or oppressive? Every word Jeremiah spoke was counter to what the people wanted to hear. His message was reported to be “discouraging” to those who heard it. For this, the call for Jeremiah’s death goes out. There is even an attempt on his life. Today, God’s Truth is received in much the same way. Are we ready to stand under such perception?
• King Zedekiah is told how to be saved from the coming calamity. He is told exactly what to do, what will happen if he obeys, and what will happen if he doesn’t. God told him and it was plain. He doesn’t listen. Zedekiah’s sons are killed in front of him. He is blinded and carried away in chains. The city is ransacked and burned, just as God said it would be. What sadness. What regret. What stupidity to ignore God’s salvation.
• King Nebuchadnezzar deals more graciously with Jeremiah than Jeremiah’s own people. The opposing army officers had a greater reverence for his office than did his own countrymen.

Thoughts

In these psalms, the psalmist is distraught over the consequence for the nation’s sins. Suffering, despair, hopelessness have become reality. Pain leads to regret. And, so, with nowhere else to turn, the writer pleads for God’s forgiveness, compassion, and deliverance. It’s impossible to read this and not feel conviction. How often do we march headlong into sin, disregarding God’s warnings, only to stagger back under the guilt and shame of our sin? What would it take to learn there is a better way?

God is gracious and He does forgive (praise the Lord!). God is merciful to those who repent and return. Yet, God would rather have our obedience before sin than our sorrow after it. Following His commands not only brings Him honor, it truly is the best way to live!

God, help us learn true obedience. Thank You for Your grace when we stumble.