Read Jeremiah 45
Highlights:
Judgment against Eqypt, Philistines, and Moab.
Cursed be he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully (Jer. 48:10).
God's condemnation was upon the priests and leaders who doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully — that is, just going through the motions of worship, but not taking seriously its true purpose.
On another occasion we read: Curse ye Meroz, said the angel of the Lord, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty (Judg. 5:23).
Some people lack enthusiasm and do not take seriously the Word of God. But they shall give account for every neglected opportunity to serve the Lord (Rom. 14:12). Some Christians seem pleased because others are sacrificing for the Lord's work, but they themselves are unwilling to accept any responsibility. They do not have the same genuine zeal for the things of God as they do for personal pleasure or advancement. They are too full of self to be concerned with the growth of the Kingdom of God.
There are those that have far too many worldly concerns of their own to think of lost souls, mission work, teaching God's Word, or church work. Some people will say they just don't have the time or energy. Others seem to be blind to these great needs. Some people are astonished when they add up how little they read God's Word, pray, or witness. We do have worldly obligations that need to be met, but our obligations to God should come first. They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith He unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's (Matt. 22:21).
But those who recognize their indebtedness to God for His redeeming grace see the great tragedy of wasting time or postponing opportunities to minister to a needy world.
We should follow the example of Isaiah, the prophet who had such great zeal to serve the Lord. When asked who will go, he immediately said: Here am I; send me (Is. 6:8).
Friend, ask the Lord Jesus to fill you with a fervent spirit and once again renew your commitment to live more for eternal values and less for things of the world.
Be kindly affectioned one to another . . . Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit, serving the Lord (Rom. 12:10-11).
Thought for Today:
Love for the Lord is the true motivation for Christian service.
Christ Revealed:
As the One who lovingly corrects His people (Jer. 46:28). Whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth (disciplines), and scourgeth (whips) every son whom He receiveth (Heb. 12:6).
Word Studies:
46:4 brigandines, armor; 46:11 daughter, people; 48:2 be cut down, perish; 48:10 deceitfully, negligently; halfheartedly; 48:19 espy, watch; 48:41 Kerioth is, Cities are.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Staff: Ilene Wallace • Country: Slovakia (5 million) central Europe • Major languages: Slovak and Hungarian • Religious freedom • 60% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant; 4% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for the privilege of publishing His Word (Ps. 68:11).
Optional Reading: Revelation 1
Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 3:1-2