TEXTS AND APPLICATION: Today is another day of wonder. These chapters in the book of Jeremiah are filled with pictures of the sin of God’s people (e.g., they didn’t obey God’s voice [Jer. 32:23]; they gave offerings to Baal [Jer. 32:29]; they defiled God’s house and even offered their own children to false gods [Jer. 32:34-35]). They were hardly worthy to be called His people. Still, God so loved them that He would first send them into exile to judge them — and then bring them back to their land in restoration.
Indeed, He would rejoice in their return. Read these words, and catch the connection to the Great Commandment (Matt. 22:37) we are to follow:
Jer. 32:41 I will take delight in them to do what is good for them, and with all My heart and mind I will faithfully plant them in this land.
These verses are the only place in the Old Testament where these words are used of God. He would give His all to return His wayward people to their land. That is, He would give His all to keep His word. His people had blatantly rejected Him, but He would bring them back. They would be His people, and He would be their God (Jer. 32:38).
How can I not want to love this patient, forgiving, pursuing God with all my heart and soul? I am filled with wonder at His grace.
PRAYER: “God, let me live differently today because of Your grace. I am so grateful that You never gave up on me — that You pursued me even in my rebellion. You are a good God.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Jeremiah 35-37