August 7, 2018
What does it say?
King Zedekiah imprisoned Jeremiah after he prophesied the destruction of the city.
What does it mean?
Zedekiah wanted Jeremiah to pray on behalf of the kingdom of Judah. But Zedekiah’s religion was superficial; he wanted God’s blessing without repentance. On the other hand, Jeremiah’s willingness to sacrifice all to deliver God’s message demonstrated more than commitment to a religious creed. He had a true relationship with the living Lord. Even though he was beaten and imprisoned, Jeremiah chose to serve the Lord wholeheartedly.
How should I respond?
Do you identify with one of the people in this chapter? Are you outwardly religious or inwardly committed to Christ? Man-made religion focuses on what you do, whereas a relationship with Jesus focuses on who you are in Christ. God desires to have a relationship with you. He wants you to know Him through reading the Bible and talking with Him in prayer. The more you experience His love, the more willing you’ll be to serve the Lord no matter the cost. How can you choose to serve God wholeheartedly today? Determine to follow Christ, not a mere religious creed.