August 5, 2021
What does it say?
God contrasts the faithful obedience of the Recabites to their ancestor’s command with the direct disobedience of the Israelites to His call.
What does it mean?
The Recabites were nomadic descendants of Jethro who followed a code of conduct similar to the Nazarites. Even though their lifestyle was harsh and humble, they kept their vow. Knowing the Recabites would refuse the wine, Jeremiah used the situation to give the people of Judah an object lesson on obedience. The faithful obedience of the Recabites is contrasted with the disobedience of Judah and Jerusalem to the Lord’s instructions. If these nomads could obey the commands of a human leader, how much more should the people of Judah have obeyed the commands of the Lord?
How should I respond?
What are your family traditions? Some of them may be fun or silly, while others pass down important aspects of character and morality. Shouldn’t we be even more intent on obeying God’s Word than on keeping earthly traditions? The Lord gives us boundaries and commands to protect and guide us. The truths in Scripture point to a living relationship with Christ both today and eternally. How might you be disobeying God in some area of your life? What blessing of the Lord or aspect of your salvation have you taken for granted? Choose to obey God’s call and pass on a spiritual family tradition.