July 10, 2021
What does it say?
Jeremiah foretold the devastation of his country and desolation of God’s people. He agreed with the discipline but asked for a reprieve so they wouldn’t be destroyed.
What does it mean?
There was nothing the people of Jerusalem could do; their captivity and the devastation of their city were certain. For generations the Israelites arrogantly assumed they had the right to be independent of the Lord instead of turning to Him as their Sovereign Sustainer. God’s people had gone about their own plans for long enough, choosing to worship idols rather than their Creator. They now had to follow the path God had chosen for them, based on their lack of obedience to Him. Jeremiah agreed with God’s just discipline but feared His wrath would destroy His people.
How should I respond?
How many times have you chosen a path in life and then asked God to go along with your plan? As followers of Christ, we freely give up the right to direct our steps; our lives are not our own (1 Cor. 6:19-20). Trying to choose your own way will only take your mind captive and keep your focus off the Lord. God alone knows how your life will best honor Him, bless others, and benefit you. In what way might you be declaring independence from God? He gave His Son to die for you. Doesn’t that kind of love warrant trusting Him with the plans of your life?