Discouragement or Encouragement?

O. T. #1818  "Discouragement or Encouragement?"

Nov. 10, 2020

Jeremiah 45

LET IT GLOW

Isn't it easy to become discouraged when things don't go our way or troubles seem to pile on us like laundry does? We are not the only ones to whom this happens. In our chapter, we read of one such man, who was even close to the prophet Jeremiah. It was his scribe and secretary, Baruch. 

Why identify yourself with a hated preacher like Jeremiah when you could be a popular secretary to the king? (Wiersby)

What a good job offer. Baruch had a brother, Seraiah, who was one of the king's officers. (51:59) Yep, he had people in high places. This chapter is actually out of chronological order. It should appear after chapter 36, during the fourth year reign of  King Jehoiakim. That is when Jeremiah had to redictate his/the LORD's words because the king burned the scroll. Of course, Baruch had to rewrite it again, too. Since the theme of that chapter was the scroll and not the scribe, chapter 45 was placed here.

Baruch was told at the beginning of this ministry of the difficulties ahead. Perhaps he did not expect it to be so hard. God knew Baruch's heart and spoke to Jeremiah about it. What was Baruch seeking? Great things, such as recognition, popularity, a career advancement? Had Baruch chosen to leave Jeremiah and the Word of God, he would have lost everything, including his life, for Babylon came to destroy the land of Judah. However, God promised to spare Baruch's life. Can't beat that benefit, huh. As it was, God protected Baruch's life and used him in His service.

Like Jeremiah and Baruch, Paul suffered persecution and troubles because of the Word of Truth he shared. (2 Timothy 2:8-9) At the close of his life, Paul was able to say, "I have kept the faith."

Will we be able to say the same thing?  

LET IT GROW

 This small chapter is a message to Baruch.  He became discouraged in the work. It must have been difficult to work with a prophet that was unpopular and writing his book of judgments. Did you notice  the scribe poured out his heart to God? (verse 3) God rebuked the scribe by telling him to take his eyes himself and the rewards he thought he deserved. God encouraged Baruch, promising to spare Baruch's life and protect him. (However, his dream of bright lights would go unfulfilled.) God gave Baruch the best gift he could have asked for, didn't He?

Life Application Study Bible says it best:

 It is easy to lose the joy of serving our God when we take our eyes off Him. The more we look away from God's purposes toward our own sacrifices, the more frustrated we will become. As you serve God, beware of focusing on what you are giving up. When this happens, ask God's forgiveness; then redirect your attention to the incomparable privilege of serving God.

Isn't it better  than great? Folks, all that we have and are, we owe to Jesus, the giver of all good things. Even though we may not have great things, as far as the world's standards, we are still rich when we have Jesus. Life itself is something we should be thankful for each day. Although we may have disappointments of not getting great things, we need to consider that the best is yet to come-heaven. So let's honor and glorify and serve God in the here and now. God is in control of all things; may we put our faith and trust in Him. 

LET IT GO

All Your precepts concerning all things, I consider to be right; I hate every false way. (Psalm 119:128 NKJV

Thank You Jesus for living in us, protecting us, and providing for us.

To You be glory, honor, and praise, Sweet Savior.

May we be encouragers to others.