Jeremiah 46:27a “Do not be afraid, Jacob my servant; do not be dismayed, Israel. I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile….”
The Lord deeply loves His people. He wants honest, close relationship with them. He gave the Israelites numerous chances to mend their ways, to return and repent, before He sent them into exile. Their pride knew no bounds and God knew that for them to be able to live the life He had for them, they had to be humbled, their hearts of stone had to be broken to be filled with God’s mercy and compassion.
Jeremiah 46:27b “…Jacob will again have peace and security, and no one will make him afraid.”
I am floored by the parallels to my own life. The times when my pride, my arrogance led me to see things as my right and my due. And God knew the toll it would take, leading me step by step away from Him. So He led me instead into a wilderness so that I could realize He is the only thing I need. And even in the chastisement, He consoled and comforted. He drew me closer.
Jeremiah 46:28a “Do not be afraid, Jacob my servant, for I am with you,” declares the Lord. “Though I completely destroy all the nations among which I scatter you, I will not completely destroy you….”
Lord, I am at a loss for words this morning, humbled by Your love of me. Thank You for not allowing me to have my way, which would lead me further from You. Thank You for the thankfulness and gratefulness that come with a humble and contrite heart. Help me to live in Your grace and shine Your light. Amen.
Jeremiah 46:28b “…I will discipline you but only in due measure; I will not let you go entirely unpunished.”
Have a blessed day.