READING: Jeremiah 36-38
Sometimes I reflect on my conversion experience, and I admit that the reality of hell was a factor in my deciding to follow Christ. That reality was central to the presentation of the gospel my seventh-grade classmate gave to me, and I couldn’t shake the possibility that could be my eternity apart from Christ. Even as a 12-year-old, I feared that possibility.
Over the years, to be honest, I’ve wondered sometimes about that motive. I recognize that by itself, it’s not the purest motive to follow God; it does, however, take seriously God’s Word about judgment. I’m reminded of this truth today as I read God’s words through Jeremiah to the king: “Perhaps when the house of Judah hears about all the disaster I am planning to bring on them, each one of them will turn from his evil way. Then I will forgive their iniquity and their sin” (Jer 36:3). God sent this word of truth that the people might return to Him.
Today, I’m again thinking about coming judgment, but this time I’m thinking about loved ones who don’t know God. Perhaps the reality of judgment will compel me to speak more regularly with them about the gospel while it also encourages them to turn to God for forgiveness.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: How much do you think about God’s judgment on others you love?
PRAYER: “God, teach my non-believing family and friends the reality of judgment—and help them see the depth of Your love that can grant them forgiveness.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Jeremiah 39-43
“Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others. But what we are is known to God, and I hope it is known also to your conscience.”
2 Corinthians 5:11 ESV