Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking Him to meet with you and speak to you.
Bible Reading
“Return, faithless Israel,” declares the Lord, “I will frown on you no longer, for I am faithful,” declares the Lord, “I will not be angry forever. Only acknowledge your guilt—you have rebelled against the Lord your God, you have scattered your favors to foreign gods under every spreading tree, and have not obeyed Me,” declares the Lord. “Return, faithless people,” declares the Lord, “for I am your husband”.
– Jeremiah 3:12-14
Devotion
It is fascinating to see two very different sides of God’s character revealed through the life and ministry of Jeremiah. On the one hand, we see the tremendous love of God for His people. On the other hand, we see the justice of God in that He will no longer allow His people to blatantly and stubbornly rebel against Him. God loved Israel so much that He would fiercely protect her against all who would seek to devour her. Yet, God reveals deep sadness that His precious bride has forgotten Him. Nevertheless, even at this late hour God still pleads to His bride to return to Him so that He can forgive and restore her to Himself. But she will not return to Him. With great sadness, God gives His beloved over to plunderers who will ruin her. Yet, this 70-year captivity in Babylon was not the final word from Jeremiah concerning God’s plan for his people. Yes, the day of divine discipline was coming upon God’s unfaithful bride, Israel. But because of God’s unfailing love, there were brighter days ahead. God is faithful to His covenant promises!
The Big Question
How does Jeremiah’s message about God’s faithfulness and mercy encourage you?
Conclude your time in prayer and silence reflecting on what God revealed to you today.