Read Jeremiah 32 -- 33
In Today's Reading:
Jeremiah imprisoned, then buys a field at Anathoth; return to Jerusalem promised; Christ, the Branch of Righteousness, promised
Jeremiah prophesied that the ungodliness of the Israelites would result in the destruction of their nation by the Babylonian Empire, and it did. The king of Babylon's army besieged Jerusalem: and Jeremiah the prophet was shut up in the court of the prison, which was in the king of Judah's house (Jeremiah 32:2). Yet, under such adverse circumstances when the destruction of the nation was imminent, the Lord told Jeremiah: Buy thee the field for money, and take witnesses; for the city is given into the hand of the Chaldeans (32:25). Without hesitation Jeremiah paid for the land, took receipts, registered the purchase, then handed over the documents in the presence of many witnesses (see 32:9-12).
This business transaction would have seemed ridiculous to those who had heard Jeremiah's repeated warnings of approaching destruction and captivity. But, Jeremiah had also proclaimed that the people would be restored to the land, and this purchase of land was evidence of his faith that the Sovereign God controlled Israel's destiny and would fulfill His Word.
Although Jeremiah could not see how God would accomplish this prophecy, his faith was in the unfailing Word of God, Who also said: I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me? (32:27).
God gave Jeremiah a fresh assurance concerning the future of Israel by saying: I will gather them out of all countries, whither (where) I have driven them in Mine anger, and in My fury, and in great wrath (anger); and I will bring them again unto this place, and I will cause them to dwell safely (32:37). How wonderful to know that, in the midst of the most difficult circumstances, we can rest assured that God is merciful and will protect and provide for the needs for His faithful servants. The Lord's invitation still is: Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not (33:3).
Our faith in the Word of God can be measured by the influence we allow it to have upon our conduct. We should ask ourselves: "Does my faith affect my everyday conduct by what is taught in the Bible or do I just go through the motions of traditional 'religion'?" The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless (II Peter 3:10-14).
Christ Portrayed:
By Jeremiah who acted as a kinsman-redeemer by purchasing the land of his cousin Hanameel even though he was in prison (Jeremiah 32:6-14; see also Leviticus 25:25,49; Ruth 2:20; 3:12-13). Jesus is our Kinsman-Redeemer Who purchased our freedom from sin, hell, and the grave with His own blood on Calvary (I Corinthians 6:20; Galatians 4:4-5; Titus 2:13-14; Hebrews 13:12).
Word Study:
32:4 mouth to mouth = face to face; 32:10 evidence = deed; 32:44 subscribe evidences = sign deeds.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Nathan Burke and the Bible Pathway Radio Broadcasts on WCMX-AM, Lunenburg MA · Government Officials: Rep. Timothy Johnson (IL) and Justice Anthony Kennedy · Country: Pakistan (138 million) in southern Asia · Major languages: Urdu and English · There is no freedom to convert Muslims to Christ. Pakistan is an Islamic republic · 97% Muslim; 2% Christian; 1% Hindu · Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you boldness and opportunities to share the gospel with others (Colossians 4:3-4).
Optional Reading: I John 5
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:24