August 6, 2018
What does it say?
Jeremiah dictated the Lord’s message to Baruch, who wrote it on a scroll. Jehoiakim, king of Judah, burned the scroll and ordered the arrest of Jeremiah and Baruch.
What does it mean?
The Lord wanted His people to return to Him. Jeremiah’s prophecy foretold the terrible things that would occur in Israel, Judah, and the surrounding nations unless there was repentance. Although the king proclaimed a time of fasting, it seems to have been a ritualistic attempt to appease God and stop the impending Babylonian attack. He didn’t grasp that God wanted their hearts to bow in obedience, not just their knees. Jehoiakim’s reaction to God’s message was as futile as it was defiant. God’s Word is indestructible because it flows from God Himself.
How should I respond?
God’s Word is eternal. Everything in life comes and goes, but God’s Word is unchanging (Isaiah 40:8). Yet there are people all around us who discount its truth, authority, and accuracy. Even people who believe the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of the Lord can be guilty of ignoring portions that cause them to be uncomfortable. What importance do you place on Scripture? Have you disregarded a difficult passage or marginalized its significance? If you are struggling with a question about Scripture, talk with a godly friend or a pastor. God’s truths are for all times and cannot be destroyed.