July 13, 2021
What does it say?
God’s people were to be bound to the Lord like the belt around Jeremiah’s waist. Those they thought to be allies would take Judah captive if they arrogantly refused to listen.
What does it mean?
God gave Jeremiah object lessons and word pictures for the people of Jerusalem. The linen belt lesson revealed their problem: God’s people were soiled by pride and the worship of false gods. The wineskins demonstrated the consequences of their arrogance – He would destroy Jerusalem if they didn’t listen. He continued with multiple word pictures illustrating their sin and its coming judgment: stumbling in the dark, taking a flock captive, changing a leopard’s spots, scattering chaff by the wind, and disgracing a woman’s purity. The overarching message in each part of the passage is, “Listen.”
How should I respond?
Object lessons and word pictures demonstrating God’s truth surround us. Gardeners may notice that weeds don’t need any help to grow and take over a garden. It takes diligent care for the desired plants to bloom and flourish. The same is true in our spiritual lives; sin is the result of neglect, while the fruit of the Spirit requires careful nurturing. Pay attention today, and you’ll begin to see God’s object lessons everywhere. What message is God trying to get across to you? Are you listening? How can you convey what you learn to family and friends?