READING: Jeremiah 32:1-33:26, Ezekiel 26:1-14
Sometimes I’m so filled with awe when I do my devotions that I wish every reader of these words could see the joy on my face. Today is one of those days—so, just imagine my glee as I write these thoughts.
God was rightly bringing judgment on Jerusalem for their sin. From their youth, they had turned from God and walked in their own ways (Jer 32:30). They had turned their backs on Him (Jer 32:33). Nevertheless, hope abounds throughout today’s reading when God tells Jeremiah to buy some land—a symbolic gesture foreshadowing God’s bringing His people back to the land:
- God was a God who speaks to people, just as He gave His word to Jeremiah. He is not a distant, uncaring Creator.
- Nothing is too hard for Him.
- The God who brought righteous judgment on His people also promised restoration of a forgiven people:
- “I will certainly gather them from all the lands where I have banished them in my anger, fury, and intense wrath, and I will return them to this place and make them live in safety.They will be my people, and I will be their God. I will give them integrity of heart and action so that they will fear me always, for their good and for the good of their descendants after them.” (Jer 32:37-39)
- “I will never turn away from doing good to them, and I will put fear of me in their hearts so they will never again turn away from me. 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.” (Jer 32:40-41)
- “I will let them experience the abundance of true peace.” (Jer 33:6)
- “I will purify them from all the iniquity they have committed against me, and I will forgive all the iniquities they have committed against me, rebelling against me” (Jer 33:8)
- “They will tremble with awe because of all the good and all the peace I will bring about for them.” (Jer 33:9)
- God would ultimately send the “Righteous Branch” of David – the Messiah who adores us so much He ultimately purchased our salvation!
Can you understand why I wish you could see my face today?
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Are you rejoicing in God’s forgiving grace today?
DAILY PRAYER: “Lord, I cannot even speak today. I can only lie before You in awe and gratitude.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Ezekiel 26:15-28:26, 2 Kings 25:3-7, Jeremiah 52:6-11, Jeremiah 39:2-10
