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Jeremiah 15 - Day 665 (link to reading)
Scripture: Jeremiah 15:15-19 Commentary (workingpreacher.org): Jeremiah is often cast as the “weeping prophet” since no other prophetic book contains as much description of the prophet’s woes. The prophet’s own suffering is most visible in the laments of Jeremiah found in 11:18-12:6; 15:10-21; 17:14-18; 18:18-23; 20:7-18, as well as in other texts. Although these passages are often referred to as “confessions,” such a label is a misnomer since they are neither confessions of sin nor of praise. Instead these passages resemble lament psalms (e.g., Psalm 13), which typically contain the elements of a cry to God, description of suffering, questions to God, condemnation of enemies, petition for deliverance, confession of trust, and a divine response. Application: We will face many disappointments in our lives so instead of burying our frustrations into our subconscious, God wants us to lament and cry out to Him. However, as OT theologian Walter Brueggemann reminds us, "The hazard of such honest prayer, as we shall see, is that Yahweh can be equally honest and therefore abrasive in response to prayer." Prayer: Lord, Thy will be done, even when I don't like it... Jeremiah 14 - Day 664 (link to reading)
Scripture: Jeremiah 14:11-16 Commentary (melissabeaty.com):13 Jeremiah is concerned for the people. He knows that the majority of what they are hearing are promises of peace and prosperity. Such promises are an error, for the true word of God is warning of destruction. Jeremiah is concerned that being one voice among many, the people will not give heed to him but instead believe the other prophets. 14-16 God responds to Jeremiah's concern by saying that Jeremiah is speaking the truth while the other prophets are not called by Him and therefore are speaking of their own accord and not by God's decree. As such, God will ensure that the exact opposite of their prophecies will come to pass, so that all may know that they have spoken falsely. Since they have prophesied that sword and famine will not come, God will bring those things upon the prophets. Application: I understand the importance of having a positive mindset, and hoping for a better tomorrow. However, the false prophets in Jerusalem were relying on YHWH to protect and rescue them, as He has previously done. Don't assume that God will deliver you from your enemies. Instead, repent and plead for his mercies. Prayer: Lord Jesus, have mercy on me a sinner... Jeremiah 13 - Day 663 (link to reading)
Scripture: Jeremiah 13:1-5 Commentary (melissabeaty.com): 1-2 Up to this point, Jeremiah has been given sermons. Now, God gives him a sign to perform in the eyes of the people. Signs are designed to attract attention and the curiosity of the people. Then, when they ask why Jeremiah is performing a strange act, Jeremiah can use the sign as a parable for spiritual truths. God tells Jeremiah to buy a linen girdle, which is opposed to the normal woolen garments worn by men. God commanded the priests to wear these underpants as part of their holy attire (Lev. 16:4). To not put it in water means to not wash it, therefore not cleansing it of whatever filth it has acquired. Jeremiah does exactly as God asks. 3-4 After Jeremiah fulfills God's first request, God gives him further instructions. God often does not reveal step two until one has completed step one. Faith allows the believer to act without knowing what to do next because the believer trusts God to provide the necessary information at the time that it will be needed. 5 As with God's first request, Jeremiah faithfully performs God's second request, burying the undergarment beneath the rock. Application: Jesus used parables, God told Jeremiah to use a linen loincloth, as an object lesson, and I'll use jokes. It doesn't matter what the "vehicle" is, just as long as, the the message is communicated in a way that people understand it. Prayer: Lord, open our minds to know You... Jeremiah 12 - Day 662 (link to reading)
Scripture: Jeremiah 12:1-4 Commentary (thewarehouse.blog): Jeremiah is struggling. He watched as his words have gone out and no one heeds to what he’s spoken. He sees the wicked prospering despite the warnings from God. His frustration and hardship has grown personal as God speaks later of his own brothers giving lip service to him. They say one thing to his face but actually are betraying and speaking ill of him when they get a chance. His patience running on empty he wants to see those who are so rebellious against God receive His justice. Been there? I know I have. There have been many times when I’ve been burdened for someone who has walked away or has even been brazenly defiant in their rejection of God. The heaviness strong at times, I pray that God will use whatever it takes to bring them in alignment with Him. And… nothing happens. All of the emotions Jeremiah has are front and center within me. Application: God already knows how we feel so be honest with Him and ourselves. In this example, God gives us the permission to express what's already within our hearts. However, I didn't like His response so I guess, it's more for us than YHWH taking action and doing what we ask. Prayer: Lord, Thy will be done... Jeremiah 11 - Day 661 (link to reading)
Scripture: Jeremiah 11:14 Commentary (workingpreacher.org): Taken in the context of Jeremiah 11, this sentence at first seems to be a continuation of what God has been saying to Jeremiah throughout the chapter. The people’s rebellion against God has gotten so bad and the judgment has become so inevitable, the Lord has even barred Jeremiah from interceding on the people’s behalf (Jeremiah 11:14). Application: Imagine how bad it had to be in order for God to stop His prophet from interceding on the Israelite's behalf. Their hypocrisy blinded them from God's love and truth so like a parent who deeply cares for their children, God was willing to let them realize their consequences. Prayer: Lord, thank You for being patient with me... |
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February 2023
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