READING: Jeremiah 49-50
Do you need some hope and confidence today as you read the Word? If so, let the stories of judgment in today’s reading strengthen your faith.
In announcing His judgment on the Edomites, God was clear in what would happen: Bozrah, the capital city of Edom, would be laid waste as “an object of horror and reproach” (Jer 49:13). So sure was the judgment that God swore it would happen; in fact, He said, “I swear by myself” that it will take place (Jer 49:12). In the ancient world, to “swear” was to make an oath and to affirm its validity on the basis of a higher authority. For God, there is no higher authority, so He can appeal only to Himself to affirm His Word. On the basis of His perfect character and His commitment to keep His Word, the Hebrews in Jeremiah’s day could bank on the coming judgment God proclaimed through the prophet. God does not lie (Titus 1:2); therefore, judgment would come to Edom.
On that same foundation of the character of God who breathed His Word through men carried along by the Holy Spirit (2 Tim 3:16, 2 Pet 1:20-21), we can trust His Word today. God will forgive and cleanse us when we confess our sin (1 John 1:9). The gates of Hades will not prevail against the church (Matt 16:18). Jesus will, in fact, come back (Matt 24:29-31). We who are believers will be resurrected (1 Thess 4:13-18). All of us will stand before the judgment seat of Christ (2 Cor 5:10). The devil and his forces will be cast into hell (Rev 20:10). Followers from every nation, tongue, tribe, and peoples will worship around God’s throne (Rev 7:9-12). Christ will reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (1 Tim 6:15).
And, He will never leave us or forsake us (Heb 13:5). On the authority of who God is, we can rest on that truth. Our God will keep His Word.
ACTION STEPS:
- Even in the midst of descriptions of judgment, God’s Word has nuggets of truth for us as we read. Thank Him for that reality.
- List some areas where you struggle trusting God and His Word. Enlist a prayer partner to pray for/with you today about these issues.
PRAYER: “God, help me to know and trust Your Word today.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Jeremiah 51-52
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