August 12, 2018
What does it say?
The remnant of Judah asked Jeremiah to inquire of the Lord, promising to do all He commanded, but then they refused to obey.
What does it mean? |Today’s reading is an example of what not to do in a crisis. The people were afraid of retaliation from Babylon, so they wanted to run to Egypt, thinking they would be safe there. They did not stop to inquire of the Lord through Jeremiah until after their plan was in motion. Jeremiah’s instructions required complete trust in God as their Protector. The reply was not what they wanted to hear. Their reaction proved that they were only asking for God’s approval of their plan. Even direct instructions from the Lord would not stop them from doing what they wanted to do.
How should I respond?
Sound familiar? Have you come up with a plan of action in the middle of a crisis and then stopped to pray? Too many times we make decisions and ask God to bless them rather than stopping first to ask God what His plan is. God promises to guide and protect us, but we must be willing to follow Him even when His directions are counterintuitive. What decision or crisis are you currently facing? How are you praying? Is it, “Bless my plan,” or “Lord, what is Your plan?” Take a moment to prepare your heart and mind to face today’s challenges. Ask God to help you trust and follow His plan.
