Bible Chapter: Jeremiah 37 & 38

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.
Again we see the king and the people refusing to give heed to the Word of God.  And yet, the king wanted the prophet to pray for them.  I wonder about people who don’t want to listen to God, and yet they want God’s help and favor.  So many people want God’s help while they insist on sharing in the world’s sinful pleasures.  This is an indication of shallow religion and no real relationship with God.  Many political leaders today insist on leaving God out of the picture(separation of church and state), and then when catastrophe strikes, they talk about prayer and call on God, expecting to receive His help.  God is not a magic wand we wave in times of trouble.
Jeremiah fearlessly stood before the king without hesitation to declare the unpopular message that the city would be destroyed.  The prophet refused to compromise truth, even in their desperate circumstances.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Obey the Lord. This theme comes up all the time in studying the Bible.  King Zedekiah believed Jeremiah’s message, but his fear of others, along with his weak character and lack of faith kept him from obeying God.   What happened?  The king brought shame on himself and destruction to the nation.  I see multitudes in our modern world who reject doing the right things, even though their decisions will bring God’s judgment.

3.  How can I help someone?
I want to help people see God for who He really is.  He is loving and kind.  He is also righteous.  His righteousness will always demand that He do the right thing.  God never looks at popularity polls.  He makes decisions based on His eternal righteousness and truth. His mercy, love and forgiveness flow out of His righteousness and truth.