August 9, 2018
What does it say?
Zedekiah sought advice from Jeremiah on what he should do about the impending siege and fall of Jerusalem to Babylon.
What does it mean?
Knowing that Jeremiah was a man of God, King Zedekiah sought his advice. It seems, however, that he only intended to follow Jeremiah’s instructions if God’s command had changed to his liking. The Lord had already given Zedekiah multiple warnings to change his course of action or face severe consequences. Fear kept Zedekiah from repentance and obedience to the Lord. His reaction shows that he was more fearful of being humiliated and mistreated by the Babylonians than of facing the Lord’s coming judgment on the city.
How should I respond?
Fear can cause us to make irrational choices or freeze up and not make a choice at all. Living in fear can keep you from being obedient to God. Psalm 118:5-6 tells us to call upon the Lord because He will answer. You never have to fear what the Lord instructs you to do. As a child of God, His will is the very place you will find the most security. What aspect of obedience to God causes you to be afraid? Being laughed at or ostracized? Give that fear to God today. Your obedience to God’s Word will have lasting effects on those around you – and could possibly impact generations to come.