TEXTS AND APPLICATION: These chapters complete the book of Jeremiah with God’s impending judgment on Babylon and His commitment to return His people to their land. In the midst of these chapters is this reminder of the power of God, especially when compared to idols:
Jer. 51:15-19 He made the earth by His power, established the world by His wisdom, and spread out the heavens by His understanding. When He thunders, the waters in the heavens are in turmoil, and He causes the clouds to rise from the ends of the earth. He makes lightning for the rain and brings the wind from His storehouses.
Everyone is stupid and ignorant. Every goldsmith is put to shame by his carved image, for his cast images are a lie; there is no breath in them. They are worthless, a work to be mocked. At the time of their punishment they will be destroyed. Jacob’s Portion is not like these because He is the One who formed all things.
God made all of creation. He moves the thunder, the rain, the clouds, the lightning, and the wind. He is mighty — almighty, actually. He speaks, and the world responds. He’s that powerful.
Meanwhile, idolaters follow gods they themselves created. Their idols cannot speak, and they have no life in them. They are but a lie that will be destroyed. They are created things; but God almighty is the Creator. That fundamental difference is huge.
I am forced here to address the things that are sometimes idols in my life: recognition, reward, applause, etc. All of these are but fleeting things that do not matter. When I pursue them rather than pursing God, I fit well the description Jeremiah uses for idolaters: “Everyone is stupid and ignorant.”
PRAYER: “God, maker me wiser today than I am by myself. Help me to see the foolishness of following my idols today. You are almighty God, and You alone are worthy of praise.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Lamentations 1:1-3:36