TEXTS AND APPLICATION: These chapters begin a section of God’s pronouncements of judgment on the nations. As the God of the nations, He had a right to judge them for their wrong. At the same time, though, God promised restoration of His people then in bondage. Yes, God would judge His people for their wrong, but He would not leave them (Jer. 46:27-28).
Indeed, God’s promise to the Israelites is a recurrent challenge and promise found in scripture:
Jer. 46:28a And you, My servant Jacob, do not be afraid—this is the Lord’s declaration—for I will be with you.
So often these phrases go together. God’s people do not need to fear because He is with us. I think today of how silly my fears are when seen in the light of these words.
- If I fear being unsuccessful in the world’s eyes, I serve a God who has not called us to live for this world; He has promised us a home in the next world.
- If I fear an inability to do what God asks, He assures me that He lives in me through His Spirit.
- If I fear having too few dollars to pay the bills, God is not worried; He owns the world.
- If I fear temptation, God’s Son has already overcome all my temptations.
- If I fear losing a loved one, He will never leave me or forsake me.
- If I fear death, God has already overcome death.
What are your fears today? If God is with you, you have no reason to be afraid. Don’t give idol status to something God can handle.
PRAYER: “God, I praise You that Your presence is mightier than anything I might fear. If’I’m afraid today, draw me quickly back to Your Word.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Jeremiah 49-50