Bible Chapter: Jeremiah 19 & 20
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.God used the technique of a parable to teach Judah and Jerusalem a very important lesson. Devastating judgment was coming that would destroy them. The pottery, the nation, would be smashed. This was because they had forsaken God and burned sacrifices to false idols. They even practiced the despicable “worship” of sacrificing their sons as burnt offerings. Their sinful practices brought them to the place where some even practiced cannibalism.
Jeremiah was faithful to tell the people the truths God had revealed to him. Some responded with such hatred and violence that they had him beaten, imprisoned and put in stocks. They did all they could to keep Jeremiah quiet, but it didn’t work. He had harsh messages to deliver from God and he faithfully gave them.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Jeremiah experienced many horrible punishments and tortures. This was even to the point where he rued the day that he was born. The pressure was immense. The good news is that he stayed faithful to God and obeyed His commands. In the book of Job, we also see this sorrow at what had been happening in his life. In chapter three Job lamented the day of his birth. With both of these illustrations, we see that eventually they knew God’s power and presence and were glad they were faithful to serve and obey the Lord. This is a very good lesson for all. There are hard times. There will be even more hard times. I don’t like that thought, but it is true. We must continue to trust God. We must be faithful and know that God will never abandon us.
3. How can I help someone?
Don’t fall prey to any temptation that looks so great, but you know violates God’s commands. It always starts out small and very attractive. But, it always ends up costing much more than it is worth. God is a righteous judge who will hold everyone accountable for their actions.
