O. T. #1838

Dec. 11, 2020

Summary of Jeremiah-Part 4

O. T. #1838 "Obedience and Love"

Dec.11, 2020

Summary of Jeremiah-Part 4

• And it shall be to Me a name of joy, a praise and an honor before all the nations of the earth, which shall hear all the good that I do unto them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and for all the prosperity that procure unto it. (33:9) Israel would be a restored people in a restored land who worshiped God with joy, praise, and honor. Are we a restored child of God that praises and honors Him with joy?
• Thus saith the LORD the Maker thereof, the LORD that formed it, to establish it; the LORD is His name. Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things which thou knowest not. (33:2-3)  Our God is ready to answer our prayers when we call unto Him, asking humbly.
• Praise the LORD of Hosts: for the LORD is good; for His mercy endureth forever; and of them that that shall bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the LORD. (33:11b) When we go into the house of the Lord, do we proclaim His goodness with praise as a sacrifice? His mercy endures forever. What a wonderful promise!
• In verses 15 and 16, Jesus is referred to the Branch and LORD of Righteousness. Friend, our righteousness is as filthy rags, but Jesus makes us righteous before a holy God.
• Pray now unto the LORD our God for us. (37:3) King Zedekiah sent a priest to Jeremiah to ask him to pray for pray for the people. Do we pray for people around us, as well as our leaders?
• For I will surely deliver thee, and thou shalt not fall by the sword, but thy life shall be for a prey unto thee: because thou hast put thy trust in Me, saith the LORD. (39:18) As God delivered His lowly servant Jeremiah from awful situations, so He can do for us. Just trust Him.
• For who is like Me, and who can challenge Me?  What ruler can oppose My will? (49:19; 50:44) No one is like our God and Jesus. No one is so powerful that they can oppose His will. Dear one, rest in this assurance that God's will shall be done.
•  In 50:4, the Lord will bring Judah and Israel together, weeping and seeking Him. Will we come together to seek our Savior Jesus?
• ...they have sinned against the LORD, the habitation of justice, even the LORD, the hope of their fathers. The word hope in Hebrew means something waited for. Is Jesus your hope?
• Their Redeemer is strong; the LORD of Hosts is His name: He shall thoroughly plead their cause, that He may give rest to the land, and disquiet the inhabitants of Babylon. (50:34) Jesus will plead our cause, despite what others to or say about us. He can quiet them. He can give us rest, when He is our Redeemer. He can heal our troubled and weary soul.
• In 52:31-34, Judah's king in captivity was set upon a throne, had his prison garments changed, and ate at the king's table. So it is with us when we become a child of God.  Jesus lifts us up, washes away our sins with the blood of Jesus, giving us His robe of righteousness, and feeds us spiritually at His table, the Word.

There is another verse that I saved for last. It is 7:23, But one thing commanded I them saying, Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be My people; and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you.

When we focus on the Lord, we see our sins, for only He is holy. We refocus on living for Jesus instead of our self. Here is one basic thing for Christians to do-obey Him. Jesus told us that the two greatest commands are to love God and love others. When we do those things, we are pleasing our God. So my challenge today for us is to look around and see who is hurting and shower them with God's love.

Thank you so much friends for your faithfulness in studying Jeremiah with me. Next, we will study Lamentations, which is written by the Prophet Jeremiah. Be sure to join us.

Jeremiah 52 and Summary of Jeremiah

O. T. #1837 "

Dec. 10, 2020

Summary of Jeremiah-Part 3

Here are some more promises Jeremiah reassured Judah with:

• For thus saith the LORD, that after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform My good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place. (29:10) After Judah's persecution they would experience God's promises; and they did, for the Persian King Cyrus released them to return to Jerusalem to rebuild it. He provided materials, also.
• For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (29:11) Are you in need of peace and hope? Go to Jesus.
• Then shall ye call upon Me, and ye shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart. (29:12-13)  When we seek God with all our heart, call upon Him through Jesus, then He will hear our plea and answer us.
• Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. (31:3) It is God's love for us that draws us to believe inn Him for salvation. Isn't He so good!
• ... for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. (31:34c) What a merciful God we serve!
• Ah Lord God! Behold Thou hast made heaven and earth by Thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee. (32:17) Mary experienced this when she conceived Jesus by the Holy Spirit. John the Baptist's father experienced it when he was struck mute, when he did not believe his elderly wife Elisabeth could not have a baby; then later his speech was restored so he could name John. Moses experienced it when God parted the Red Sea and provided manna and water in the desert. Joshua experienced it when he and Israel crossed the parted Jordan River; then when they prayed and marched around Jericho, seeing God cause its wall fall so they could conquer Jericho. Paul experienced it on the road to Damascus; his blindness, encounter with Jesus as Savior Messiah, and healer of his sight. Then the women experienced the risen Savior when they went to His tomb to care for his dead body. 

Friend, have you experienced the everlasting love of God? You can if you will believe is Jesus as your Savior. Have you experienced the Risen Savior? Then when you pray, seek and search for God with all your heart, you will find Him and He will hear your prayer.

Do you have thoughts of peace today? Is heaven your expected end? Have you faith that believes nothing is too hard for God to accomplish in your life and the life of others?

Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. (John 14:6) 

 

 

O. T. #1836  "Simply Believe"

Summary of Jeremiah

Dec. 9, 2020

If you are joining us for the first time, welcome. To update you, we are wrapping up the study on the book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament. So grab you Bible and read along with us. Now, I'm not a seminary trained scholar in the Word, but I have a desire to dig into the Word of God and apply it to my own life, as well as share it and my past experiences walking with God for fifty years. It is my desire to be an encourager for Christians and share the gospel with the lost. With that said, let's jump into some reviewing. (Read the last post to learn about some background on this book.) The chapter and verses are listed first in the references.

• 16:19-O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall come unto Thee from the ends of the earth... Gentiles (includes us) will be converted, as well as the power and might of the true God will be seen. Is the Lord our strength, stronghold, and refuge on whom we rely in our day of trouble?
• 17:9-The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? We don't know what we would do in a situation until we are in it. We can deceive ourselves into thinking we would do the right thing, but...
• 17:26-...and bringing sacrifices of praise unto the house of the LORD. When we keep worshiping Him on the Lord's Day, we experience blessings, peace, and prosperity.
• 18:6b-Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand. In chapter 18, God told Jeremiah to go down to the potter's house and observe his work. God is the Potter and we are His clay. He works with us and on us and through us to shape us into a vessel that honors Him. Are we moldable.
• 20:13-Sing unto the Lord, praise ye the LORD: for He hath delivered the soul of the poor from the hand of evildoers. In Acts 16, we read of Paul and Silas praying and singing praises to God while in jail after being beaten and put in stocks. Can we sing Jesus' praises in less harsh circumstances?
• 21:8-Behold, I set before you the way of life, and the way of death. God's ways provide us with life. Will we choose it instead of our own way? Those of Judah who chose life and went to Babylon peacefully did not experience the sword, famine, and plague brought on by God's judgment.
• 23:5-6 Jesus is our Righteous Branch, our King, and is called The LORD our Righteousness.
• 23:23-Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off. When we draw close to God, He draws close to us.
• 24:7-And I will give them a heart to know Me, that I am the LORD: and they shall be My people, and I will be their God: for they shall return unto Me with their whole heart.

What does Jesus want? He wants His followers to be people of simple faith, modeled in grace, based on truth. Nothing more. Nothing less. Nothing else. People of faith mean what they say and do what they hear. They do not substitute words for action or pious discussion for personal involvement. (Day By Day With Charles Swindoll)

A simple man believes. (Proverbs 14:15)

Are you a believer in Jesus today, friend? Are you allowing things in your life to keep you from believing in Jesus today? Oh dear one, Jesus is the only way to heaven. He is the Son of God that takes away the sins of the world, as John the Baptist said. He loves you so much that He died on the cross to take away our sins. It is not by works or being good that pleases God, but trusting in His Son as your Savior. Simply believe in Him and ask Jesus to be your Savior right now. He is waiting. He wants to bless you today. Simply believe.

 

 

O. T. #1835 "Summary of Jeremiah"

Dec. 8, 2020

Summary of Jeremiah

Whew! We have finally completed our study of Jeremiah, some 52 chapters. (We began in July, too!)Thanks so much for staying in there with me through all the gloom and doom. If you have been studying with me very long, you know that I like to go back and summarize what we have learned and scriptures which I have highlighted during it. (By the way, this post was already written a day ahead, but it did not get posted for some reason. Sorry it is late for my second time.)

Jeremiah began his ministry at age 21, which continued for about 50 years. He was called by God to deliver messages to 5 kings of Judah, several nations, and his countrymen. He was rejected by neighbors, family, friends, false prophets and priests, kings, and the audience who heard him. Jeremiah is known as the weeping prophet because he wept over the spiritual condition of his country. He knew what was in store for the people of Judah and the people, as well as the Temple. Because they would not repent of their idolatry and immorality and worship only God, there came famine, destruction of the Temple and Jerusalem, death of soldiers as they were taken away for 70 years of captivity in Babylon, all as a result of God's judgment.  (Now Jeremiah also prophesied the coming Millennial reign of Jesus on earth in Jerusalem.) Oh, another thing, Baruch was Jeremiah's secretary who recorded What God told Jeremiah.

Friend, get your Bible open and read these verses with me. They are what I consider gold nuggets. How can we apply them to our life?

• 1:5-God formed us, sets us apart to be His child, and appoints us to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
• 3:23-Only in the Lord Jesus do we find salvation.
• 9:24-The Lord exercises lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth.
• 10:6-7-The living God is great and his name is Great in Might. (my capitials) There is none like Him. Great means exceedingly mighty in the Hebrew language.
• 14:8-Jesus is our hope and Israel's hope; our Savior in time of trouble. Hope refers to something waited for.
• 14:22-We wait upon God, for He has made all things.
• 15:16-God's Word is our joy and we rejoice in our heart.
• 15:20-God is with us, saves us, and delivers us.

Do we have joy in our heart this Christmas season? If not, why? Do we need reminding that God loves us and chooses us to be His child? He proved it by leaving heaven and coming to earth as  baby Jesus in a harsh world. Also, Jesus lived a perfect life so He could take our place for us as the punishment of our sins. What love! He rose from the grave to prove He is God and lives forever. He has provided eternal life for us with Him in heaven. One day Jesus will reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. What a day that will be!

Dear one, if you do not know this Jesus personally as your Savior, you can today. Just ask Him to forgive your sins and come into your heart to be your Lord and Savior. He will, for He keeps His promises and His Word. Then you can celebrate joyfully this Christmas season of our Savior's birth.

 

O. T. #1834  "Who is on The Throne?"

Dec. 7, 2020

Jeremiah 52-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

This chapter is a confirmation that Jeremiah's writing and prophecies were fulfilled. Probably the writer of these events was Jeremiah's secretary, Baruch. We read about King Jehoiachin of Judah was given a throne of state (not power) in Babylon by Neb's son, Evilmerodach. (verse 31) Then his uncle Zedekiah (Judah's last king), was carried away to Babylon. We read previously that he saw his sons killed and his own eyes put out, then placed in prison. There was no king of Judah on the throne, for the Temple and houses of the king, great men, and other's houses were burned. (verse 13) That does not sound encouraging for us. But wait, my friend, there is and has always been One on the throne, ruling heaven and earth-our God.

Jesus left His throne on high to come to earth as a baby, growing up, then living a perfect life as a man. He was God in the flesh. Because of this, the Jews rejected Jesus as their Messiah, even though prophets predicted His coming and the manner in which He would come. It is not just the Bible that records the life of Jesus Christ, but secular history bears witness that He lived, also. What distinguished Jesus from other men was that God raised Him from the dead. There are several accounts of witnesses seeing Jesus after the three days He was dead.

Now Jesus is seated on the throne at the right had of God the Father. Let's take a look into the New Testament for scriptures on this subject:

• In Acts 2:30-34, Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost that God raised Jesus up, there were witnesses, and He is being by the right hand of God exalted and The LORD said unto my LORD, sit Thou on My right hand. (David spoke this in Psalm 110:1) Jesus is seated on His throne at the right hand of God. In Greek, the word throne is a stately sea; by power; potentate. 
• The author of Hebrews (probably Paul) says in chapter 8 that we have a high priest (referring to Jesus) who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens. Then in chapter 9 said that Christ being a high priest entered once into the holy place by His blood, obtained eternal redemption for us. (verses 11-12)
• In chapter 12, as we run the race with patience (live), we look to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, who for joy endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
• The prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah, as well as others, spoke about Jesus coming to earth to reign upon His throne in Jerusalem for a thousand years. Satan will be bound during that time, later loosing the Battle of Armageddon.
• In Revelation 7, a great multitude, elders, and angels will fall on their faces before the throne and worship God and the Lamb.

So dear one, why do we worry about things going on in the world and in our individual lives? Our Savior and God are still on their thrones overseeing everything. I have a note above my computer that reads: If.... He is still God! You fill in the blank for child of God.

 

LET IT GROW

One more thing to bring out that happened in this chapter. There were three deportation groups of Jews taken to Babylon:

1. The first deportation occurred when Neb was reigned in his 7th year as king. There were 3,023 people exiled, carried away as captives. Daniel speaks about in the first chapter of his book.
2. The second deportation took place during the 18th year of Neb as king. There were 832 people exiled.
3. The third deportation took place in Neb's 23rd year and was a punishment to the Jews for killing Gedaliah (chapters 40-41). Jeremiah was one of those, but later released.

Nebuchadnezzar reigned as king of the Babylonian Empire for 42 years, 604-562 BC. The his son reigned as king. In 586BC, Jerusalem and the Temple fell to Neb's rule. The Jews spent 70 years in captivity because of their idolatry and God's punishment. In 539BC, Babylon fell to Persia. Fallowing all of that, Cyrus king of Persia released the Jews to return back to Jerusalem to rebuild the city and the Temple in 520BC.

God was still on His throne throughout all of those events. Jeremiah had 41 years of ministry under 5 kings in Judah.  

 

 

LET IT GO

Who is on the throne of your life?

We are the reason that Jesus gave His life. We are the reason that He suffered and died. To a world that was lost, He gave all He could give, to show us the reason to live. Have you finally found the reason to live? Are we giving our all just for Him? Jesus is my reason to live. How about you?

O. T. #1833  "From Prison to a Palace"

Nov. 4, 2020

Jeremiah 52-Part 2

Today, we are studying toward the end of the book of Jeremiah, then we'll review what we have learned and note some scriptures that stood out. Although this chapter is almost identical to 2Kings 24-25, it concludes with the destruction of Jerusalem, the deportation of the Jews to Babylon, and the deliverance of King Jehoiachin.

Just a bit of review: The last good king of Judah was Josiah, who removed the idol worship and returned the people back to worshiping God, reigning 31 years. However, his two bad sons reigned next-Jehoahaz (only reigned 3 months) and Jehoiakim (reigned 11 years). Then King Jehoiachin reigned only 3 months in Judah before he was taken away to Babylon. (Zedekiah was his uncle that was the last king of Judah.)

After Nebuchadnezzar, king of the Babylonian Empire, died, his son Evilmerodach reigned. During the his first year, he did something unusual. (This occurred during the 37th year of Jewish exile.)

We read what happened in verses 31-34:

• He liberated Jehoiachin, bringing him out of prison. (verse 31)
• He spoke kindly to Jehoiachin. (verse 32)
• He set Jehoiachin on a throne of state, not a throne of power. It was a higher place than all the other exiled kings in Babylon. (verse 31)
• Jehoiachin was supplied with new clothes to replace his prison garb, a changed garment. (verse 33)
•  All the days of his life, Jehoiachin continually ate bread in the presence of the king of Babylon. (verse 31)
• He received the same diet.

This former king of Judah was freed to enjoy previously denied privileges. The Lord did not forget the Davidic line, even in exile. (John MacArthur)

After 37 years in prison, a king was taken to a palace. Only God could do such a thing.  Friends, this is good. Even though Jehoiachin was the last of Solomon's descendants, the line of succession transferred to David's son Nathan. The importance of this can be seen in the genealogy of Jesus through Mary, whose ancestors were of Nathan's line (Luke 3:31). Thus the messianic line was preserved and Jesus's claim to the throne of David legitimized. The coming of David's greater son, the Lord Jesus Christ, brought all of God's promises to His people. (Tony Evans)

All these years I could not figure out why Mary's lineage was through David's son Nathan and not through Solomon. It was because Jehoiachin was into idolatry and he died without a son to be heir to the throne, as God had told him. 

LET IT GROW

So what does all of this have to say to us?

• When we become a Christian, Jesus sets us free from the prison of our sins. Our sin nature kept us in prison to our sins.
• Jesus speaks kindly to us.
• We become joint heirs with King Jesus.
• Jesus changes our heart and clothes us in His righteousness.
• When we read His Word, we are eating spiritual food at the King's table.

Wow! I told you it was good. Just think, we filthy sinners can converse in prayer with the Creator and sustainer of the universe! It was the love of Jesus that has provided this!

LET IT GO

Jesus, we thank, praise, worship, and adore You.

Thank You for providing us with eternal life, not through anything we have done, but through all You have done.

Thanks be to Jesus for the gift of salvation.

 

O. T. #1832 "A Glad Heart"

Dec. 3, 2020

Jeremiah 52

LET IT GLOW

What makes your heart glad? I like spending time conversing with my girls, purchasing gifts for the kiddos, baking banana bread to give to friends, and singing Christmas carols about my Lord Jesus. What about you?

Can you believe we have almost finished the study of this 52 chapter book? I am so blessed that you have stayed with me. It has been a rather difficult book to continue through because Jeremiah keeps repeating the doom and gloom coming to Jerusalem, Judah, and the nation. Now with our last chapter, Jeremiah is focusing on the fall of Jerusalem, other events, and kings.

When we look at Jeremiah's life through the eyes of the world, he was totally unsuccessful. After all, he had no friends, family, money, nor position. Jeremiah prophesied the destruction of the nation and capital city, as well as the temple. The political and religious leaders would not accept or follow his advice, though. No group of people liked him or listened to him. Yet, we see that he successfully completed the work God gave him to do. And he suffered while doing it, being put in a pit and prison. Don't you know he had peace knowing he was doing the right thing? (Life Application Study Bible)

Folks, success must never be measured by popularity, fame, or fortune, which are only temporal. God measures our success with obedience, faithfulness, and righteousness. If we are faithfully doing the work God has given us, then we are successful in His eyes.

Be sure that wealth, power, success, good health, profitable business, or growth in ministry are not always a sign of God's blessings. God's presence and will in our life  being carried out may result in the opposite occurring in our life. Our greatest achievement should be a close relationship with our God and Savior Jesus Christ. A close walk with Jesus while we are on this adventurous journey of life should be our greatest joy. Are we delighting our self in Him, making our decisions while focused on Jesus, then we will have strength to endure whatever comes our way.

Ask Jesus to think through you, live through you, love through you. (Sarah Young)

I have set the LORD continually before me... therefore my heart is glad. (Ps. 16:8-9)

Is our heart glad today and during this Christmas season? Are you laughing, being cheerful, and staying on the sunny side of life?

LET IT GROW

The Tony Evans Commentary explains: Chapter 52 is a historical supplement added about 25 years later as a further confirmation that Jeremiah's prophecies did come to pass. The fate of Jerusalem and Zedekiah (verses 1-11) have already been discussed in 39:1-7. Zedekiah was a humiliated king, blinded and bound in bronze chains, destined to spend the rest of his life in prison. (verse 11) Verses 12-30 review the fall of Jerusalem, destruction of the temple, plundering of its treasures, and deportation of the people to Babylon-just as Jeremiah had prophesied.

Because King Zedekiah did evil in the Lord's sight, and led the people in idolatry, the Lord's anger was against Jerusalem and Judah (verse 2):

• The Babylonian king built forts around Jerusalem. (verse 4)
• Famine came to the people in the city. (verse 6)
• When the city wall was broken down, Judah's soldiers fled. (verse 7)
• Zedekiah was captured as he fled toward Jericho. (verse 8)
• The king saw his sons killed, then his eyes were put out. (verses 10-11)

Jeremiah had predicted those events back in chapter 38, but the king would not heed them. Are we heeding the Word of God in our life?

LET IT GO

                     ... of worry, sorrow, fears, insecurities, and disappointments; trust Jesus.

                     ... of worldly things and focus on Jesus, for He is the reason for the season.

                     ... of the impossible and cling to the One who makes all things possible.                              

                     

 

 

 

O. T. #1831 "Generations Serving Jesus"

Dec. 2, 2020

Jeremiah 51-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

When our grandchildren last visited us in the summer of 2019, I shared some family history. I shared how my husband and I met, God's calling us into the ministry, and His working in our lives. Their other grandmother had done the same thing, without my knowing it. Well, our granddaughter recently shared at her baptism that she had parents who grew up in Christian homes and now she is. What a testimony. I continue to pray for my grandchildren, that they, too will serve the Lord Jesus with their life. How about you? Today, we learn that God can use generations of faithful believers for His purposes and will to be accomplished.

There are a few more things we can learn from this chapter. There is a message to the exiled Jews in Babylon. God promised to hear His people's cry, take up their cause, and bring vengeance on Babylon. (verse 36) He used pagan  powers (Cyrus of Persia) to accomplish His will, smashing the nations (Babylon and others) and who destroyed Israel and Judah (who committed idolatry).

Let's take a look at verses 45 and 50. What does God instruct His people to do?

• Go out of Babylon. (verse 45) Cyrus allowed the Jews to return Jerusalem in order to rebuild the Temple and the city. The first group to return was 46,697 people led by Zerubbabel; 3,508 led by Ezra; and others led by Nehemiah.
• Deliver (to release or rescue, save, preserve) every man his soul. Verses 6, 45)
• Get out, you who escaped the sword.
• Go away; don't stand and watch.
• Remember (think on) the Lord, though you are in a far off land, afar. (verse 50)
• Think about your home Jerusalem. (verse 50)

Some of the Jews were well settled in Babylon, for they spent 70 years in exile.  They were to not linger like Lot in Sodom, nor stop on the road back, but go to Judah. They were to not put their trust, confidence, and resources in a kingdom to be judged and conquered. We believers are to do the same today and in our future, as Revelation 18:4 says to separate from the pagans. We are to think on the Lord Jesus, serving Him throughout each day. As we share the gospel, we help folks be rescued from their sin and hell.

LET IT GROW

In verses 59-64, we read about Seraiah, the brother of Baruch, Jeremiah's secretary, not the one who helped arrest Jeremiah in 36:26.

So I found some interesting information concerning this man's background. He was the grandson of the high priest Hilkiah, who found the book of the Law in Josiah's reign as king. Also, he became the grandfather of Joshua-ben-Jozkak, the high priest at the return from exile, a branch of his family to Ezra. Wow! This family had generations of men who served God. This is an encouragement for us to pray for and share the spiritual heritage of our family. Also, we can ask God to bless our future generations with salvation, faith in Jesus, and a desire to serve Him with their life. What a blessing that would be!

Seraiah was a quartermaster who arranged for food and lodging for diplomatic delegations, a quiet prince.  (Falwell)

What was his roll in this time? Jeremiah copied what is our chapters 50 and 51, the disasters to come upon Babylon, and gave them to Seraiah. When he got to Babylon, he was to read the scroll out loud. He was told to tie a stone onto it and throw the scroll into the Euphrates River. Then Seraiah was to say that in the same way Babylon and her people would sink, never again to rise, because of the disasters God will bring upon her.

Just a tidbit-my grandmother sang and played a guitar some hymns on our local radio station when my Uncle Carl preached. (Many years ago my aunt married the preacher of our home church.) I have cousins and myself who sing in churches today. The Lord has blessed our family, I would say. 

LET IT GO

Keep the Lord Jesus on our mind throughout the day.

Honor Him in whatever way He leads.

Pray for our future generations to be saved and serve Jesus.

Jeremiah 50-51

O. T. #1830  "I Don't Understand"

Dec. 1, 2020

Jeremiah 51-Part 2

He hath made the earth by His power, He hath established the world by His wisdom, and hath stretched out the heaven by His understanding. (verse 15)

LET IT GLOW

With everything going on in our world today, do you feel that you don't understand? You are not alone.  Perhaps in your own world you don't understand why things are happening. Here is what I found that can help us.

Sometimes we feel as if we don't understand ourselves-what we want, how we feel, what's wrong with us, or what we should do about it. But God's understanding has no limit, and therefore He understands us fully. If you feel troubled and don't understand yourself, remember that God understands you perfectly. Take your mind off yourself and focus it on God. Strive to become more and more like Him. The more you learn about God and His ways, the better you will understand yourself. (Life Application Study Bible)

Although this chapter is a prediction of doom for the Babylonian Empire, we can still find encouragement. What does Jeremiah have to say here?

It is good to praise the Lord as our Creator (El Eyon). Take a look at our key verse. How does it say He has created the earth, world, and heaven?

• by His power (might, strength, vigor);
• by His wisdom (skill);
• by His understanding (intelligence, discretion).

When we pray, do we acknowledge God as being all-powerful, all wise, and understanding? We can praise Him for those characteristics.

Psalm 146:5-6 tells us, Happy is the one whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord His God, the maker of heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them.

The person who looks to the Lord-the Maker of heaven and earth-for their help is happy or blessed (the Hebrew word can be translated either way), because the Lord is faithful forever. He has no limitations and is eternally trustworthy. (Tony Evans)

Sometimes I just need these reassurances. Remember that God gives wisdom when we ask for it.

LET IT GROW

In verse 20, God uses Cyrus of Persia as His battle axe (a war club) against Babylon to destroy it for His purposes. Are you one of God's battle axes that He uses to destroy evil in your world?

Characteristics of God's battle axe:

1. Must be sharp. Hebrews 4:12 says God's Word is quick and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword. We must know what it says when faced with temptations, trials and evil.
2. Must be free of rust. Otherwise, it is blunt and will not chop. Rust in us can be drugs, sleep, food, pride, disobedience, sexual impurity that can dull our witness and effectiveness for Jesus.
3. Must pass through fire. Fire sharpens a metal axe. Our fire can be afflictions, which make us stronger instruments in the hands of God.
4. Must be available and easy to use. Unless we are available for God to use, we are only a noisy gong without His love for others.

Being God's battle axe means you are His weapon of warfare to bring down the enemy. A battle axe cuts down, roots up, and breaks into pieces strong holds of the enemy, Satan. God used many of His servants to pierce the darkness in their world-Elijah, Elisha, Paul, Peter.

Can God count on you to be His battle axe, too? Be sharp in His Word, free of sinful rusts, strong in the fire, and available for His use.

LET IT GO

Lord we need Your wisdom and understanding.

Use us as a battle axe in our world.

Keep us available and ready to be easily used for Your purposes and glory in kingdom work.

 

O. T. #1829 "Who is Your Lord?"

Nov. 30, 2020

Jeremiah 51

LET IT GLOW

Did you notice this is a very long chapter? It continues a description of God's judgment upon Babylon. However, there are some gold nuggets found here:

• For Israel hath not been forsaken, nor Judah of his God, of the LORD of Hosts; though their land was filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel. (verse 5) God will not utterly forget nor destroy His people. Judah did return to Jerusalem and rebuild it and the Temple.(We are the remnant under grace according to Romans 11:5.)
• The LORD hath brought forth our righteousness: come and let us declare in Zion the work of the LORD our God. (verse 10) Jesus is our righteousness, for ours is as filthy rags.
• But the God of Israel is no idol! He is the Creator of everything that exists, including His people, His own special possession. (verse 19a, NLT)
• The LORD of Heaven's Armies is His name! (verse 19b, NLT) The LORD of Hosts is His name. (KJV)

God's almighty power and wisdom in creation are evidences of His superiority to all idols. (verse 17,18) (MacArthur)

Will we acknowledge God as our Creator and all things, we are His own special possession, and Jesus is our righteousness? He is the LORD of Hosts. Who is Lord of your life, friend? 

LET IT GROW

History tells us that Cyrus, the King of Persia, with the Medes overthrew the Babylonian Empire in 539 BC, and formed the Medo-Persian Empire. Scripture also tells us in Isa 13 and 21, Daniel 5:28 and 31, as well as 8:20.

John MacArthur tells us, "The focus was first on Babylon's sudden fall on one night in 539 BC. the far view looks at the destruction of the final Babylon near the Second Advent when it is sudden. (Rev.18)"

Are we ready for the rapture?

LET IT GO

Jesus, only You are our Creator, Savior, Messiah, Redeemer, and Righteousness.

You are worthy of worship and praise, for only You are our God.

 

O. T. #1828 "Who is in Control ?"

Nov. 27, 2020

Jeremiah 50-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Folks, something is wrong and I cannot get the new post button to work, so here is where you will find it until I can get it working. Thanks for your patience and faithfulness.

So far in this chapter. we have learned our God is the LORD of hope, the habitation of justice, and strong Redeemer. He is the One who pardons sin; He pleads our cause; He gives rest. Now in verse 44, He says that He will bring a strong lion (Cyrus of Persia) upon Babylon and they will run away from it.

Then, in that verse, God asks 4 questions:

1. Who is a chosen man, that I may appoint over her? It is God who choses whom He will use for a task. Cyrus was chosen by divine appointment, became ruler over Babylon.
2. For who is like Me? In Isaiah 46:9, God proclaimed that He is God and there is no other and no one is like Him. 
3. Who will appoint Me the time? No one can contend with God and win in His court or battle.
4. Who is that shepherd that will stand before Me? No king or ruler can stand before God and prevail.

With His wisdom and power God chooses whomever He wills to perform whatever He gives them charge to do. He chose Neb to conquer Judah and Cyrus to conquer Neb; He chose Assyria to conquer Israel and Babylon to conquer Assyria. God chose Jesus to provide salvation for you and me.

Are anyone challenge God, to stand before Him question Him is a battle of wills? No one will win. God has the winning power, the say-so, and  way for His will to be accomplished. All we can do is yield to Him.

When God is on our side, no weapon formed against us shall stand, friend. so take on the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit (Word of God), which He provides, and stand firm against the attacks of evil. The battle isn't actually ours, but God's battle. Let Him fight for you.

LET IT GROW

Although God used the sword of the Babylonians to fulfill His judgments, He will use His sword of war to turn on them and slay this empire. Six times God calls for a sword to smite the Babylonians in verses 35-37. It will attack their:

1. liars who were astrologers and soothsayers;
2. princes who had wealth and power;
3. mighty or wise men who were their philosophers and counselors; 
4. horses and chariots used in war;
5. treasures that will be robbed;
6. their waters will be dried up.

Don't you know that the world was shocked the greatest empire was overthrown so quickly? No earthly power, no matter how great, can last forever. God is in charge and He will raise up whom He desires and bring down whom He desires. We are all in His hands. After all, He's got the whole world in His hands!

LET IT GO

Let go of pride, philosophies, control, and things to God for His use and glory.

Use our treasures for Your glory, Jesus.

 

November 26, 2020

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. We pause this day to express our gratitude to our Creator, Savior, and Redeemer. Without Him, we would not be here; we would not have salvation and eternal life in heaven; without Him we would not enjoy thousands of thing for which we are thankful. Jesus is worthy of our praise! Glory to God in the highest.

Let us come before Him with thanksgiving. (Psalm 95:2)

Thanksgiving is so encouraging... and so understated. No jingles to sing, no gifts to buy-just a day to be thankful. To look up and around and within and say, "Thank You, Lord." (Day By Day devotional by Charles Swindoll)

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. (Psalm 107:1)

Be like that one leper: Take time to give thanks-and mean it. (Billy Graham)

Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to god the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5:19-20)

Paul learned to give thanks even in the midst of great adversity-unjustly accused, brutally treated, separated from friends, harsh treatment in a Roman prison. Yet, instead of complaints, his lips rang with words of praise and thanksgiving!

Take a moment to think about the Pilgrim Fathers who landed at Plymouth. They taught us to give thanks. Seven times as many graves were made for the dead than homes were made for the living. Seed from England failed to grow. A ship bringing food and relief only brought 35 more mouths to feed, without provisions. They had almost nothing by today's standards. However, they possessed a profound and heartfelt gratitude to God for His love and mercy. [taken from Wisdom for Each Day by Billy Graham]

Now, our God, we give You thanks, and praise Your glorious name. (1 Chronicles 29:13)

So let us be grateful, dear one, wrapping ourselves in His amazing grace and selfless, unending love.

For what are you thankful today?

Open our eyes to see the needs of others, Jesus. Use us to meet those needs in Your name.

 

 

O. T. #1828 "Our Redeemer is Strong"

Nov. 25, 2020

Jeremiah 50-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

May I take a moment and thank the Lord for giving my husband and I 48 years of marriage today? Sure it hasn't been all roses, but life just isn't. Challenges are always around the next corner. Our commitment to each other and to the Lord has remained faithful, and held us together. May I encourage you to do so? It does get sweeter as the days go by. Hold on so the world does not come between you. And forgive each other, not holding grudges. Love covers a multitude of sins. Then you, too, can share the blessings of God with others.

Amidst the long chapter of doom for Babylon, there lies words of hope for Israel, Judah, and us. It is found in verse 34. Jeremiah prophesied that the people of Judah would be taken and held captive by Babylon for 70 years. What comfort in their distress does Jeremiah say is available to them?

• Their Redeemer [gaw-al' in Hebrew; refers to a purchase; a ransom; to be the next of kin (as to buy back a relative's property)] is strong (mighty; harder). Job 19 says he knew his Redeemer lives; in Isaiah 49, he speaks of the Redeemer of Israel; Ps.38 mentions the High God their Redeemer. Jesus Christ is the Redeemer to which these are referring. He purchased our salvation with His blood so we can have eternal life in heaven. It is a free gift to us.
• His name is the Lord of Hosts, which His people call Him and can call upon Him. Jesus is all-powerful. He has heaven's armies at His command and can avenge the enemies of His children.
• He shall thoroughly (exceedingly) plead (to defend) their cause. Who better to have defend us than Jesus!
• That He may give rest to the land, spiritual rest.
• Jesus will disquiet (be afraid, shake) the inhabitants of Babylon. The enemy of God and Judah was Babylon. The Lord of Hosts will wipe them out.

Is Jesus your Redeemer? He purchased us with His blood sacrifice on the cross so we do not have to pay for our sins. He covers us with His righteousness because ours is filthy rags so we are accepted by the Heavenly Father. Jesus rights the wrongs and avenges our injuries done to us. In Him we find spiritual rest. How can we but thank and praise Him!

LET IT GROW

Jeremiah has a lot to say about the future of Babylonians:

• Their idols will we broken into pieces and confounded. (verse 2)
• Their land will be desolate, with man and beast removed. (verse 3)
• Persia is the one who will come out of the north to conquer them. (verse 3)
• It will be a wasteland, a wilderness, a dry land, and a desert. (verse 12) Iraq is modern Babylon, so it is today as desert.
• God takes vengeance on them because they were proud, destroyed His Temple, and defiled the Lord. (verses 28-29)
• There shall be no more inhabitants forever. (verse 39)
• They refused to let go  the children of Israel and Judah so God brought the Persian army to destroy Babylon. (verse 33)

We know that God's Word is true and He keeps His Word. All of this happened to the Babylonians, even though they were used to bring judgment to Judah.

 

LET IT GO

Great are You Lord Jesus.

It's Your breath in our lungs so we pour out our praise to You.

All the earth will shout Your praise.

These bones will say, "Great are You Lord!"

Hoping and Thanking

O. T. #1827 "Straying Sheep Come Back"

Nov. 24, 2020

Jeremiah 50-Part 2

In those days, and in that time, saith the LORD, the children of Israel shall come, they and the children of Judah together, going and weeping: they shall go, and seek the LORD their God.  (verse 4)

LET IT GLOW

Our neighbor down the road has a flock of sheep that graze in a meadow. I rarely see them, but the other day, I saw three sheep grazing in their yard the other day. I enjoy watching this unusual sight, for our area has farms of cattle and chickens. Well, one day we were returning home and a ram ran out in from of our truck out of nowhere, returning back to its yard. (It had strayed away from the yard going across the road to graze on grass there.) My husband didn't see it coming, but was able to stop and not hit the sheep. Aren't we like that ram? We often stray from the Lord into sin and eventually run back to Him? Today's lesson refers to a group of people like that straying sheep. Won't you join us and read on about it?

Not only did God warn Judah about His judgment coming upon them, but He also warned other nations and Babylon, the one He used to bring it about. God use the prophet Jeremiah to publish and spread these warnings. The problem these nations and the chosen people of Judah had were idolatry and pride. God Jehovah is the One True Living God. There is no other. He will not allow those sins to continue. He must have first place and be the only One worshiped. The punishment God sent to the Jews was 70 years of captivity in Babylon, a heathen nation. Babylon received punishment, also. Their idols were broken and their empire destroyed as Cyrus of Persia conquered them.

However, there was good news for Israel and Judah, the scattered sheep. Although Assyria and Babylon destroyed their Temple and their land, God was always working His plans. He promised the Jews would return to their Promised Land and rebuild the destroyed Jerusalem. (verses 4-7,17)

What hope is Israel and Judah given in this chapter?

• The people of Israel and Judah will return home together. (verse 4a) In 1Kings 12, we read where Jeroboam built another temple for the northern kingdom to go to worship instead of making the long journey to Jerusalem. Then he put false idols in that temple, thus leading Israel into idolatry. This was the division of Israel into two nations-Israel and Judah.
• They will come weeping and seeking the LORD their God. (verse 4b) Such joy must have been evident on their journey.
• They will ask the way to Jerusalem and start back home again. (verse 5a) Keep in mind this a different generation of Jews. Most of those who went into captivity will have died off by this time.
• The returnees will bind themselves to the LORD with an eternal covenant never forgotten.     (verse 5)

This prediction came true as 3 groups of Jews returned to Jerusalem, under the leadership of Zerubbabel, Priest Ezra, and Nehemiah. So keep this in mind as we continue reading what the major and minor prophets prophesyed through the rest of the Old Testament. 

Doesn't this give us hope? When we stray into sin, then repent, Jesus forgives us and returns us to a right relationship with our God. (1 John 1:9) How awesome is our God!

LET IT GROW

There were further instructions for the Jews. In verse 8, the Jews were told to flee and leave the land of the Babylonians-Like male goats at the head of the flock, lead My people home again. 

Folks, do we know people in our circle that have strayed into sin and away from the Lord? We are told to lead them back to Jesus. Are we loving them back to Jesus? Are we sharing what He has been doing in our life? Love covers a multitude of sins. Are we forgiving, also? When they do return, there will tears of joy. Things to think about. Jesus takes us back into His fold, too.

All we like sheep have gone astray: we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all. (Isaiah 53:6)

LET IT GO

Thank You Father that You forgive us when we stray away from You.

Bring Your sheep back to You.

Jesus, thank You  for bearing our sins and forgiving us. 

*There seems to be a technical problem  for posting this lesson, so hang in there with us. I am going to get help to straighten out the problem.

 

 

O. T. #1826  "Hoping and Thanking"

Nov. 23, 2020

Jeremiah 50

... even the LORD, the hope of their fathers. (verse 7)

LET IT GLOW

How is the LORD described in verse 7?

1. the habitation [dwelling place; a home, of God (temple)] of justice;
2. the hope (something waited for) of their fathers

God is just in all He does. Jesus, the Expected One, the Savior and the Messiah, was the One in whom the ancestors of Judah long awaited to come to earth as their King and LORD. Jesus was the One in whom the fathers of Judah put their hope.

In whom are we putting our trust? In whom are we waiting for? Jesus said He would return to take His church and believers home to heaven.

Psalm 20:7 says, Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

Are we trusting in government, people, things instead of God?

Will we remember to give thanks to our God this Thanksgiving?

Judah had forsaken their God, the only true and living God. They put contempt on the Temple and the tradition of their fathers by not worshiping only Him who was the hope of their ancestors. Therefore they deserved to suffer these hard things Jeremiah prophesied about.

 

LET IT GROW

How good is your memory on history? Here are three questions for you: Who was the first to conquer God's people, the northern kingdom of Israel? Who was the next to crush God's people in the southern kingdom of Judah?  Who conquered both Assyria and Babylon? (Assyria, Babylon, and Medes and Persia became the world empire.) How did you do?

Jeremiah's prophesies were God's judgment and punishments on the nations not worshiping Him. Now, chapters 50-51 tell of Babylon's upcoming sentencing in the divine courtroom.

Before we get into that, let's take a look at some of the background of Babylon:

• In less than 150 years after Israel fell to Assyria, Judah fell to Babylon.
• Israel was warned to repent of idolatry by prophets Jonah, Hosea, Amos, Micah, and Isaiah.
• Judah had prophets Nahum, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Habakkuk, Obadiah, Zephaniah.
• King Hezekiah of Judah tore down idols in the land and restored worship of God in the Temple in Jerusalem. Although, he was followed by bad kings who led Judah into idol worship.
• There were various philosophers and religions in the world established during this time-Lao-tse, of China; Pythagoras, a mathematician, too; Buddhism in India; Confuciusism in China; Nebuchadnezzar built the Hanging Gardens of the 7 wonders; Greek gods were worshiped.
• Babylon was the chief city, which was located some 50 miles south of modern Baghdad, Iraq.
• Neb was God's servant of judgment on Judah. Jeremiah urged Judah to submit to them and live, but many did not, thus fighting and killed or running to Egypt.
• The Babylonians were going to be punished for their sins of pride and covetousness as they lived on prey.
• Babylon would fall, never to be restored again (verse 39), while the Jews would be restored (verses 4-6).
• When the Medes and Persians conquered Babylon. Cyrus, King of Persia, conquered Babylon in 539 BC without a battle.

History bears out those events did happen in the world, as does the Bible. Babylon was a symbol of all evil in the Scriptures. These messages can apply to the end times, too, when God will destroy all evil, once and for all. In Revelation 17-18, the Lord will crush all evil during the end of the tribulation.

Do we see that a Sovereign God is in control of world events?

Who is in control of your life? Are you trying to control it instead of allowing God to?

LET IT GO

Everlasting Father, You are our hope. We give thanks for Your mercy and love. Jesus, thank You for providing salvation for us sinners. Our hope is in You, Jesus. We wait for Your return to earth to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. Please forgive us of our sins, individually and as a nation.

Jesus, You are way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness; that is who You are, as the song says. 

Who is Controlling Your Little World?

O. T. #1825 "Who is Controlling Your Little World?"

Nov. 20, 2020

Jeremiah 49-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Regardless of your position, honors, degrees, or achievements, it is not our strength, knowledge, nor our abilities that got them. God is behind it all, supplying what we lack. What is important is that our God gives us good things that is important, right? Even though we may have a hardiness to endure adverse conditions, difficult situations, or survive trials, God supplies what we lack and need, agree? Although we may demonstrate a wonderful attitude or temperament, it is a result of God's doings. Our God is in control of individuals, kings, and nations. He is presides over all, even when He does not get the credit. Is He in control of your little world? do we want Him to be or do we want control?

With that said, shall we see what Jeremiah said the future held for Arabia and Elam?

What do we know about Kedar and Hazor?

• They were Arabian tribes located east of Palestine in the Syrian desert.
• They were Ishmaelites, mentioned in Genesis 25:13.
• These nomadic (wandering) and semi-nomadic tribes were known for their skilled in archery, trading, and carrying for flocks. (Isaiah 21, 42, 60)
• They lived at ease and in security, or so they thought, not bothering with doors or even a gate bar. (verse 31)
• Since they did not live in a walled city, they were easy prey.
• The Babylonian invasion would cause fear and panic on every side. (verse 29)
• They were a wealthy nation, very rich, though they had no trade and no treasures. (verse 31)
• Their camels and cattle would be booty (prey, spoil, plunder). (verse 32)
• The devastation would be so great that no one would dwell there, not even temporarily.        (verse 33) 

Those people could run, but not hide from God. God's judgment was upon them. Those unthankful people would soon have no descendants.

Those who are truly rich have enough to supply their necessities and know when they have enough. Those that live innocently and honestly may live very securely. (Matthew Henry)

How are we living? Are we grateful or greedy? Are we content or discontent? Are we happy or unhappy? Jesus lived here with meager things, having no place to lay His head, owning no elaborate dwellings, for His home was in heaven. And it couldn't get any better than that, folks.

LET IT GROW

 Elam is the last nation mentioned in this chapter. What do we know about those living there?

• It is modern-day Iran, according to Tony Evans.
• It was an extremely ancient civilization, lying east of Babylon, bordering Assyria and Media on the north, Persian Gulf on the south, and Persia on the east.
• It was conquered by Assyria about 640 BC. When Nineveh fell, Elam regained its independence and later helped to overthrow Babylon. Oh, by the way, they were very good archers, so that would explain things.
• Susa, its capital, was over 700 miles from Jerusalem. Jews were deported there with King Zedekiah (2Kings 24:14), so this prophesy would have brought hope for Jews both in Jerusalem and exiles in Babylon as well. (Susa was where Esther and Mordecai lived. She bravely saved the Jews from death.)
• God's throne was there, which means His righteous judgment would be upon this sinful people.

There is good news from all the doom for the Elamites. They had a future, for God would bring them back to their land. Acts 2:9 says they were among the group on the Day of Pentecost, to hear the gospel when Peter preached. the Holy Spirit came and interpreted the words in each group's language.  Three thousand souls were saved that day.

Dear one, are you saved today? Have you asked Jesus to forgive you of your sins and be your Savior? He loves you so much that Jesus paid the price for your sins, and took your and my punishment for them. Therefore, salvation is a free gift to all who believe Jesus is God's son and Savior.

LET IT GO

Jesus, only You are our hope for eternal life in heaven.

Jesus, only You are our hope in this world. Preside in our heart.

Jesus, only You are our hope through struggles.

Jesus, bless all who live around the world, who read this, with courage and strength today, along with salvation.

 

Are We Grateful for What We Have?

O. T. #1824 "Are We Grateful for What We Have?"

Nov. 18 & 19, 2020

Jeremiah 49-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Is there any encouragement to be found in this chapter? We can find it in verse 25, I think: How is the city of praise not left, the city of my joy!  

I can think of several cities in our nation that could be described as such. People go there for entertainment and a fun night on the town. However, now with this deadly virus spreading, I think few have a desire to visit them for their pleasure. Since I live in a rural area, I feel safer if I don't go to those cities, especially now when schools and restaurants are being closed down. If you live in a large city, I pray for your safety.

Damascus, a heathen city, is a city of praise and joy of God? No, I think I had the wrong idea, folks.

 MacArthur translates Damascus as "the city of renown," famous because it is located in an oasis and for its trade.

Matthew Henry's Commentary described Damascus as a city of praise, not to God, but to herself, a city much commended and admired by all strangers that visited it. A city of joy, with affluence of all delights of enjoyment of them. It was a city of the Prophet Jeremiah, who had sometimes visited with pleasure. Or it could be the speech of the king lamenting the ruin of the city of his joy. But now it is all overwhelmed with fear and grief. Those deceive themselves that place their happiness in carnal joys; for God in His providence can soon cast a damp upon them and put an end to them. He can soon make a city of praise to be a reproach and a city of joy to be a terror to itself.

Today we will continue the prophesies of Jeremiah as the Lord God gave them for they city of Damascus and the kingdoms of Arabia (Kedar and Hazor) and their doom ahead.

LET IT GROW

First some background on the cities of Damascus and others in Syrian area:

• Damascus was a chief city and capital of Syria, Aram.
• It was located at the intersection of 3 major caravan trade routes and north of Israel. (Ezekiel 27:18)
• It was the city of joy of the people. (verse 25)
• In 732 BC, Damascus was subdued by Egypt, then Babylon.
• Its city of Hamath was on the northern limit of Solomon's rule and some 110 miles north of Damascus in southern Syria. 
•  Aleppo  in northern Syria was 105 miles from Damascus.
• They devised cruel evils against Israel in the palaces of Ben-Hadad, thus the reason for their destruction. God sent Babylon's army to overthrow them.

What was the destiny for these cities? There would be no trade, no wealth, and no treasures there. If we have our necessities provided, then we are rich and blessed when we have what we need, friend. Are we thankful for the food on our table and clothes on our back? Are we grateful for all our God has given to our family?

LET IT GO

Open our eyes, Jesus, to see how much You have blessed us.

Gove us a grateful heart today.

Use us to share with others in need.

*Just a note as to why I didn't finish this post earlier. I had to prepare for my colonoscopy and the camera in my esophagus, drinking my party mix after a day of only liquids. My test was Tuesday, so I am still a bit weak from it. However, it had been 5 years since my previous one, so that was a blessing, since I have crohns disease. A good sized polyp was removed and a metal clip placed there to stop the bleeding. God is so good, for He saw me through all of this week, in my weaknesses. I give Him thanks and praise for sustain my breath and heart beating through it all. (My last test put me in the hospital for being dehydrated and depleted potassium and magnesium.) Although I have had some rather sleepless nights since then due to the pain, I am still here. Great are You my Jesus, Lord and Savior!   

Pride

O. T. #1823 "Pride"

Nov. 17, 2020

Jeremiah 49-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

 Another prophesy of  doom is on Edom this time. (verses 7-22) These people were descendants of Esau, the twin brother of Jacob, whose descendants were the Israelites. Their father was Isaac. Jacob received the blessing of his father, although through deception.

The Edomites were located southeast of the Dead Sea in the mountains, modern Jordan. They were known for their wisdom. One of Job's so called friends was from the northern part of Edom. However, their wisdom could not save Edom from God's wrath. Being a rock fortress, Edom thought they were invincible and secure. This pride destroyed the individuals and the nation of Edom. Ruin came as they were in ruin spiritually.

Pride makes us think we can take care of ourselves without God's help. Even when we serve God and others, we can become prideful. We should take inventory of our life and service for God. Ask Him to point out and remove any pride we may be harboring.

LET IT GROW

As Esau was cursed for his godlessness, so his descendants were punished for theirs. The great caravan route, the King's Highway, passed along the eastern plateau of Edom. (Numbers 20) It was a commercial route used often. See why Edom was so prideful?

The LORD said to Edom, I will cut you down to size among the nations. (verse 15)

Pride goes before destruction. Even though the Edomites felt secure because of their  geographic location (verse 16), but it would offer no protection from the Lord who would swoop down like an eagle to devastate them. (verse 22) (Tony Evans)

The weakest of the Chaldeans shall drag them away. Verse 11 says that God would protect the orphans and widows and they can depend on Him for help.

For who is like Me, and who can challenge Me? What ruler can oppose My will?  (verse 19 NLT)

And we all say, "None, Lord God for You are all powerful."

Are we depending on our God for His protection?

Are surrendered to His will or do we challenge His authority over us?

LET IT GO

We are trusting in Jesus, to watch over us, to do what is right, and according to Your will.

Help us let go of pride and control.

May the truth and godly prevail in Your will.

 

 

 

Captives Released

O. T. #1822  "Captives Released"

Nov. 16, 2020

Jeremiah 49

LET IT GLOW

Have you, like me, felt held captive in our own home this year? With the threat of a deadly virus, we isolate ourselves trying to avoid it. But I became overwhelmed and down. Finally, I had enough and went to our shop a couple of times a week and to worship services on Sunday. We were made to need people. I am trusting in God to protect me. I had to step out in faith first though. How about you, dear one? Do you need to be released like a captive in today's lesson?

 

We discovered who Moab was and their doom coming as Jeremiah prophesied it. Now, the nation of  Ammon, who were also descendants of Lot through incest, had the same future ahead of them. (As well as the other 4 nations spoken of in this long chapter-Edom, Damascus, Arabia, and Elam.)

David had captured the Ammonite's capital (2 Sam. 11:1); during Jehoshaphat's reign, the Ammonites invaded Judah (2Chron. 20:1-30). They harassed King Jehoiakim and helped destroy the administration of Gedaliah (40:11-14). Other prophets predicted their doom-Ezekiel, Amos, Zeph. (Falwell)

The Ammonites were condemned for stealing land from God's people (tribe of Gad) and for worshiping the god Molech, to whom they sacrificed children.  They trusted in her isolation and materialism, but the seeds of sin always bring a harvest of judgment (Galatians 6:7-8)

LET IT GROW

King Nebuchadnezzrar of Babylon defeated Ammon in the fifth year after Jerusalem was destroyed. Yet, God promised one day to restore the fortunes of the Ammonites (verse 6) and bring back the captives. This was partially fulfilled under Cyrus, but will be more complete in the coming kingdom of the Messiah's second return. 

We must be sure our hope is in Jesus Christ. Then our hope will be renewed with strength. We will be like eagles, soaring above their problems; running and not growing weary; walking and not fainting. (Isaiah 40:31)

LET IT GO

 Nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37

Keep soaring, running, and walking with Jesus.

Who is Your King?

O. T. #1821 "Who is Your King?

Nov. 13, 2020

Jeremiah 48

LET IT GLOW

So far, we have read about Jeremiah's prophesies of doom against Egypt and Philistia, the foreign nations. Now we find out that Moab was doomed, also. Moab was a heathen nation located east of the Dead Sea, having lavish vineyards. What else do we know about Moab?

For some background, we will look into previous books:

• Genesis 19-Lot, who was Abraham's relative, was rescued from Sodom and Gomorrah before God destroyed them. Lot's wife was turned into a pillar of salt when she looked back to see the destruction. Now Lot's two daughters survived, also. They got Lot drunk and conceived sons Moab and Ammon by their father.
• Numbers 22-After the Hebrews left Egypt headed to the Promised Land, Moab would not allow them to cross their land. Also, their king summoned Balaam to curse the Hebrews, but did not. Therefore, bitterness toward Israel endured for centuries. (Nehemiah 13)
• Numbers 25-The Moabite women seduced the Hebrew men into immorality and idolatry.
• 2 Samuel 8-War continued off and on between the two  until David finally subdued them.
• Assyria controlled Moab during the  8th century; then came Neb of Babylon.

David's great-grandmother was a Moabitess, Ruth. Therefore, Jesus had Moabite blood in His veins. It is this King Jesus of the Jews who gives this dooming message to Jeremiah.

Zechariah 9:9 tells Jerusalem to look, for their King was coming-He is righteous and victorious, yet He is humble, riding on a donkey-riding on a donkey's colt.

That was fulfilled according to Matthew 21:9, when it occurred as Jesus entered the holy city and people spread out garments and tree branches for their King. then, Jesus said He identified Himself, saying, I am King of the Jews, found in John 19:19.

In Revelation 17:14, we read where the kings of this world will make war with the Lamb (Jesus), and He will overcome them: for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings; and they that are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.

Then when Jesus comes riding on a white horse from heaven, He will wear a robe on which is written, King of all kings and LORD of all lords.

Who is your king? Is it Jesus or the next president? Are you faithful?

LET IT GROW

What do we learn about Moab?

• There will be cities of devastation and great destruction. (verse 3)
• They would be taken captive because they trusted in their wealth and skill. (verse 7)
• Their god Chemosh, priests, and officials, will be hauled off. (verse 7)
• they will be ashamed when they trusted in their idol Chemosh and their gold calf at Bethel. (verse13)
• Although they had lived in peace, calamity was coming for Moab. (verse 16)
• They were prideful, arrogant, haughty in heart, boastful people. (verses 29-30)
•  the destroyer will strip bare their grape vines. (verse 32)
• Joy and gladness will be gone from fruitful Moab. (verse 33)
• There will be crying, and sorrow in every Moabite home and on every street. (verse 38)
• Terror, traps, and snares will be their lot. (verse 43)

Then God will allow a remnant of Moab to return to the land. Through their descendants will come the Messiah. (Ruth) (verse 47) Isn't that encouragement for Israel and Moab? Jesus provides salvation to free people from the eternal effects of their sins, and gives hope for this future.

 Isn't that mercy, not getting what we deserve? Dear friend, are you free from the penalty of sin? You can be by trusting in Jesus as your Savior and asking Him to forgive you of those sins. Then one day we will meet in heaven and worship the King of kings together forever.

LET IT GO

Let go of pride, arrogance, a haughty heart, for our life is all about Jesus.

Let Christian joy and gladness be evident in our life today.

 

Cutting Swords, Cutting Words

O. T. #1820 "Cutting Swords, Cutting Words"

Nov. 12, 2020

Jeremiah 47

For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

LET IT GLOW

Will you agree with me that words can cut us to the very soul and heart? They can be so sharp that it is like a knife cutting out our heart. Evil words and hateful words can continue to ring in our mind for years. But there is a remedy for this kind of pain. In today's reading, we find a nation facing the same situation. Read on friend.

What encouragement can we find here? Jeremiah prophesied the destruction of Egypt, and it happened. Now he is prophesying the destruction of Philistia where those cruel Philistines lived along the coastal plain next to Judah. They always had been a thorn in Israel's side. They were always fighting in battles. You will recall when David brought down one of their giants with only pebbles (and God's power) in 1 1Samuel 17. They were the wrongs in a world of wrongs.

Other prophets spoke against  Philistia-Isaiah14, Ezekiel 25, Amos 1, Zephaniah 2. Philistia was destroyed in 604 B.C. by the Babylonians, sent by God. The Philistines were so frightened that they did not even  turn back for their sons. (verse 3)

How long will these cut themselves? (verse 5) The Philistines will loose everything so they will be cutting themselves as a sign of sorrow. As long as the sword of the Lord cuts them, is the answer. Jeremiah begs them to put up their sword, to rest, and be still. (verse 6) The prophet had compassion and wanted to see an end of the war. How can the sword be still when God sent it on a mission? (verse 7) It must fulfill its charge. They were reduced to nothing when God was finished with them.

The solution for the Philistines was repentance of their sins, turn from idolatry, and love God as the One and Only.

Dear friend, Jesus' love never fails, never gives up, never runs out on us, as the song says. Jesus is our hope in hopeless times. Nothing can overwhelm us that He has defeated it. We must trust in our Lord Jesus to do what is right in a world of wrongs. 

Will we cling to Jesus and His Word? 

LET IT GROW

Now look at our key verse. What is sharper than any 2 edged sword? It is God's Word. How is it described?

• alive and powerful;
• sharper than any 2 edged sword;
• cuts between the soul and spirit;
• cuts between joint and marrow;
• exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

Nothing in creation is hidden from our God. Everything is naked and exposed before His eyes, and He is the one to whom we are accountable. (NLT)

Doesn't this explain why some people rebel against the truth? They don't love God's Word and do not want to be cut up in their soul and thoughts by guilt of their sin. They despise the corrections it gives, so they avoid hearing it. Also, they want to get rid of the ones delivering the truth. When the solution is so simple-admit they are a sinner in need of a Savior, Jesus Christ, but pride prevents this. 

Pray for those we know in this condition.

If we are the ones who have had our heart cut out with cutting words, we need to turn to Jesus. He is Healer. Let His healing love flow down into the chambers of our soul and the closets of our mind.

LET IT GO

Father, keep us loving Your Word.

May we hide it in our heart so we don't sin against You, Holy Father.

Please use us to share and stand for Your truth.

Stubbornness

O. T. #1819  "Stubbornness"

Nov. 11, 2020

LET IT GLOW

Today is a special day for two reasons. First, it is the day set aside to honor our veterans past and present. Let them know how much we appreciate them. Second, it is my mother's birthday. Had she lived, she would be 98, but she has been gone some 23 years now. If your mother is alive, let her know you love her.

Thank you for continuing with me as we study this book of the Bible together. It hasn't been easy has it? Dare I say we have learned a lot? So hang in there for there are only a few more chapters to go. I pray you will be blessed for your faithfulness to study God's Word.

We have learned about the stubbornness of Judah to repent of their idolatry and God's judgment on them as He used Babylon to burn down the Temple and Jerusalem, as well as the land. They were without excuse for God had sent several prophet to warn them, including Jeremiah, to warn them what would happen if they did not return to worship only God.

With that said, shall we dive into the last few chapters left? Jeremiah gives prophecies against various Gentile nations here. They would drink the cup of God's wrath, doom. These may have been given to Jeremiah at different times and collected according to the nations, but not chronologically. (Because God still had a future for His chosen people, He would deal with those nations who mistreated and oppressed them.) It should be placed after chapter 25.  

The first nation was Egypt, who was going to be brought into the divine court for its sentence pronounced. We recall how God rescued His children from slavery there many centuries earlier (Exodus). Many people of Judah put themselves under bondage again as they ran off to Egypt for protection from Babylon, disobeying God.

Here is a summary of what happened:

• Babylon's army overthrew Pharaoh Nech's army some 19 years after Jerusalem fell. Nech had grand plans to conquer the world, but it did not happen. His panic-stricken army stumbled over each other trying to get away from the slaughter. (verses 5-6)
• Great talkers are little doers, according to Matthew Henry. Pharaoh did not save Egypt from Babylon, For this is the day of the Lord God of Hosts, a day of vengeance... (verse 10)
• Some time lapsed between verses 2 and 13. Neb's father died so he returned to Babylon.

What encouragement can  we find?  Look at verses 27-28. God speaks comfort and peace. The Jews already captives in Babylon would receive God's mercy, but corrected. (They remained there 70 years.)

• God would save the remnant and their seed from the land of captivity afar. (verse 27a)
• Israel would return to a life of peace and quiet and no one would terrorize them. (verse 27b)
• God said He would completely destroy the nations where Israel was exiled. (verse 28)
• God could not let Israel go unpunished; He would discipline them with justice. (verse 28)

And we know God kept His word. A remnant was sent back to Jerusalem to rebuild it. Could you use a life of peace and quiet? Even a day? It probably was needed while children were home for school last spring. God is a present help in our time of trouble, so turn to Him.

LET IT GROW

• When he returned to Egypt, there was a different Pharaoh, Hophra.
• The Lord laid it out how Neb would conquer Egypt. (verses 13-26)
• Nech had passed the time appointed. (verse 17)

 There was coming a day of peace in Egypt when they are converted to Christianity-the Millennium reign of Christ. It will be a time of peace worldwide. Egypt will worship the One True God then. (see Isaiah 19)

LET IT GO

God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

Have you trusted in Jesus as your Savior? He is the only way to heaven.

Today you can know where you will spend eternity.

Ask Jesus to forgive you of your sins and be your Savior.

Then you will be heaven bound, too.

 

 

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.

Living in a Messed Up World

O. T. #1817 "Living in a Messed Up World"

Nov. 9, 2020

Jeremiah 44-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Even in a messed up world, there are lovely things around us. I look outside and see the bright sun shining on dull brown leaves of oak trees, shiny yellow leaves of the pecan tree, and red leaves barely hanging on. How grateful I am to be able to see colors, for I know one guy who can't because he is color blind. Then there are cutie pie kittens wrestling. Birds are in the woods singing praises to their Creator. They don't know they live in a world turned upside down. Their heavenly Father keeps providing for them.  

There are some things we can learn about our God in this chapter:

• He brings evil as a punishment  on disobedient people. (verse 2)
• He can be provoked to anger. (verse 3)
• He sends His servant prophets with warnings. (verse 4)
• He pours out His fury and anger when people had not hearkened (listen, understand, discern, obedience), inclined their ear, nor stopped burning incense to false gods. (verses 5-6)
• He can cut off our future generations. (verse 7)
• He established His laws, statutes, and testimonies, for all to obey. (verses 10,23)
• He has power to send famine, pestilence, and the sword. (verses 12-13)
• He remembers things we do. (verse 21)
• When He swares by His name to do something, then He does it. (verse 6)
• The Lord God liveth. (verse 26)
• He watches over us to bring good or disaster. (verse 27)
• He shows mercy to those who repent, turn to obey Him. (verse 28)
• His Words stand (remain, strengthen, rise up, succeed, lift up). (verse 28)
• He gives signs. (verse 29)
• He keeps His Word. (verse 29)

Does God's Word strengthen us and lift us up? It will remain forever. It will succeed in accomplishing its purpose.  

God kept His Word and sent the Babylonian army to wipe out Egypt. So we need to be on God's side, loving Him and obeying Him. You know, they cut themselves off; it was their own fault. It was too late for them. 

I call this a messed up world because we are all sinners living in it. Good is called evil and evil is called good. Yet, it has been this way since Adam and Eve first sinned. In this messed up world, we must hold onto Jesus and His Word. Trust Him to do what is right and deal with the wrongs of people. 

LET IT GROW

A small group of Jews, a remnant, returned to Judah and they lived. That would have been a long journey for them, yet it was worth it. They did not die in Egypt as others did. Such mercy of God! When the remnant heard what happened, they knew God's Word shall surely stand. (verse 29)

(After Jeremiah's forced move to Egypt, there is no word in the Bible about the events in the rest of his life. He  had a 40 year ministry of pain and few listening to him. Yet he continued to be faithful.) 

LET IT GO

You are a faithful God.

There is no one like our God.

Help us please You by being faithful.

Give us a hunger for Your Word and a thirsting for Your Spirit.

Past Failures

O. T. #1816 "Past Failures"

Nov. 6, 2020

Jeremiah 44

LET IT GLOW

Do you have any past failures? Has any calamity forced you to examine your life? We need to take a close look at God's instructions for us and be willing to humbly apply what we find there. Jesus is our hope to get back on the right track.  

Just when you think it can't get any worse for the Jews, it does. The remnant of Jews that went to Egypt were a stubborn and rebellious group. Jeremiah was in Egypt against his will, but gave another message to the remnant, as recorded here- if the Jews there continued to worship idols, they would die in Egypt and not return to Judah. Of course, they had been warned about this before leaving Judah, so it was not new to them. These people refused to learn any lessons from all the destruction their sins had caused back there-burning of houses and the Temple.

Know any folks like that? They keep repeating the same mistakes in their life and wonder why they keep getting the same results?

Self-destruction is worse than any destruction by an enemy. It can include foolish decisions, dangerous habits, or blatant disobedience to God. To fail to learn from failure is to assure future failure. Our past is our school of experience. Let our past mistakes point us to God's way. (Life Application Study Bible) 

 LET IT GROW

What were the things of failure that this remnant did?

• We will not listen to your messages, Jeremiah, from the LORD!
• We will do whatever we want. (verse 16)
• We will burn incense and pour out liquid to the Queen of Heaven (fertility goddess, Asthoreth, which was worshiped sexual immorality) like our ancestor did in Judah.
• We had plenty to eat and were well off with no troubles. (verses 17-18)
• When the wives made cakes in the idol's image, their husbands knew about it and helped them.
• We will carry out our promises of doing those things to Asthoreth. (verse 25)

Oh my goodness, what a rebellious people. This present generation of Jews in Egypt perished and did not name the name of the Lord, as verse 26 says. They were consumed by the sword and famine. Yet, a small number that escaped death by the sword returned out of Egypt to Judah. Then all those that went to Egypt will find out whose words are true-God's or theirs.  They would know that God's words will surely stand against them for evil.

Here is a sign God would gave the Egyptian Jews of their own destruction: The Pharoah that came up to help the Jews in Jerusalem, would be turned over to Neb of Babylon, just as King Zedekiah of Judah had.

Only those who repented of going to Egypt and returned to their own land would escape judgment. God wanted of attitude and action. He always makes a way of escape, even when we get ourselves in so deep it doesn't look as if there is any way out.

How do get out of the effects of our failure?

1. Admit we have rebelled against God.
2. Forsake our sinful direction.
3. Seek to live as God instructs in His Word. (Life Application Study Bible)

LET IT GO

Help us Jesus to learn from our past failures.

When the Answer to Prayer is Stay

O. T. #1815  "When the Answer to Prayer is Stay"

Nov. 5, 2020

Jeremiah 43

LET IT GLOW

The reaction of the Jews was not good. Despite the counsel from God that Jeremiah gave the small remnant in Judah, which was to stay and not go to Egypt and God would take care of them, they refused to obey like they had promised. Unfortunately, a couple of leaders accused Jeremiah of lying about the will of God.They even said Baruch, Jeremiah's secretary, had influenced Jeremiah's message because he wanted the people to stay and be killed by Babylonians or be carried off into exile. (verse 3) Isn't that crazy?

The guerrilla leaders took with them all the people who had returned from other countries, including the king's daughters, and those whom Nebuzaradan had left with Gedaliah, to Egypt. The prophet Jeremiah and Baruch were included. This makes no sense to me, other than they were rebellious and afraid.

Some historical background may help us understand:

• Assyrian Empire ruled in Egypt from 671-652 B.C.
• Babylon invaded Egypt in 586 B.C.
• Babylon fell to Persia in 539 B.C.

Assyria was ruling in Egypt at that time, apparently. And God said the remnant would die in Egypt if they went. It happened as He said. We aren't sure if it was Jeremiah's physically being forced to go against his will or his sense of duty compelled him to accompany the remnant. (verses-7)

An observation I made when looking at a map, it was a long way through a wilderness and desert land for to go to Egypt. Also, it would them a while to travel there, but they stopped at Tahpanhes, which means  palace of  the Negro. This rebellious people, who feared the Babylonian army, ran to the Egyptian army for  protection. We know how that turned out for them. They needed to know that they had not outrun the reach of the God who controlled all the forces of earth.  The LORD of ARMIES and The LORD of Hosts was a favorite name Jeremiah had for his God. God was either summoning or defeating great armies.

To whom do we run for protection? When we find out God's will for us, are we willing to do it?

LET IT GROW

The Lord gave Jeremiah another message while in Tahpanhes:

• While the people of Judah were watching, Jeremiah was to take large rocks and bury them under the pavement stones at the entrance of Pharaoh's palace.
• Tell them that God was sending Neb to Egypt. He will set up his throne over those stones Jeremiah had hidden. He will spread his royal canopy over them, establishing his headquarters there.
• Neb will destroy the land of Egypt, bringing death, captivity, and was to those whom it is destined.
• Neb will set fire to the temples of Egypt's gods and carrying away the idols as plunder. Like a shepherd pick fleas from his cloak, so will Neb pick clean the land of Egypt.
• The pillars of the temple the sun god, Re, will be broken down and others burnt. Those pillars were said to be 60-100 feet high.
• Neb will leave unharmed.

So much for the great empire that Judah had place its hopes! Jeremiah served as a prophet for God some 40 years. Many of his words had come true already. His messages were rejected. He could have lived comfortably in Babylon, however, Jeremiah loved his stubborn people and chose to stay with them.

Do to stay faithful to Jesus no matter the results? 

LET IT GO

Stay when God says stay; go when God says go.

Serve the Lord with gladness. Come before Him with thanksgiving.

Willing to Do

O. T. #1814  "Willing to Do"

Nov. 3, 2020

Jeremiah 42-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Are you at a crossroad, wondering which way to go or whether to stay? Our God can open doors for us to go where He leads or give us peace and strength to remain. Whichever is His will for each of our lives, remember, there is no big or small assignments from God.

The small remnant in Jerusalem got together and decided it would be a good idea to get God's rubber stamp of approval for their plans. Sot they went to Jeremiah with a very pious-sounding request. They wanted the prophet to inquire of the Lord about the best course of action (verses 1-3). He promised to pray and tell them every word God revealed to him (verse 4). In response, the people promised that whether the news was good or bad, they would certainly obey the Lord (verses 5-6). (Tony Evans)

Should the tiny remnant stay or go to Egypt? After 10 days, the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah with blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. What were the details for their circumstance which God revealed to Jeremiah?

• Stay in this land.
• If you do, God would build them up, not tear down;
• plant you, not uproot them. (verse 10)
• Do not fear the king of Babylon anymore.
• For I am with you and will save you and rescue you from his power. (verse 11) 
• I will be merciful to you by making him kind, so he will let you stay here in your land.

Sounds good, huh?

I am not sure of the author, but I have this saying on my desk so I can:

God isn't asking you to figure it out. He's asking you to trust Him that has.

Whether God has asked us to pray for someone, to minister to a person in need, to lead a Bible study, or to care for those who are sick, strive to be faithful. You will experience His enabling as you serve Him. If you are faithful in a little, God will entrust you with more. You will be able to join Paul in praising God for having counted you faithful, putting you into His service (Luke 16:10). (Experiencing God Day-By Day) 

LET IT GROW

If the small remnant in Judah refused to God, going to Egypt instead of remaining and trusting Him for everything and keep His promises, then the very war and famine you fear will catch up with you and you will die there. That is the fate awaiting everyone if you insist on going to Egypt. You will die from war, famine, and disease. None will escape what I bring on you there. Just as I poured out My anger and fury on Jerusalem, so will they be poured out on you when you enter Egypt. You will be an object of damnation, horror, cursing, and mockery. You will never see your homeland again. That is what the LORD of Heaven's, the God Israel told Jeremiah for them.

Wow! What an answer. Jeremiah realized the people had not been honest with him. He knew the Jews were not going to obey God and remain in Jerusalem. Although, we will find out what they did in the next chapter.

It is a tragic mistake to ask for God's guidance with no intention of following it. Be sure never to ask God for something that you know in your heart you really do not want. It is better not to pray than to pray hypocritically. God cannot be deceived. (Life Application Study Bible)  

LET IT GO

Make sure my heart is willing to obey when I ask God to reveal His will for my life.

God sees all and knows our decision before we ask for His revelation.

Where You go, I will go; where You stay, I will stay;  I will follow You, Jesus.