Jeremiah 38:2 “This is what the Lord says: ‘Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, famine or plague, but whoever goes over to the Babylonians will live. They will escape with their lives; they will live.’”
There is a lot going on in this chapter. One thing commentary pointed out, which I would not have thought of, is the parallels—a prophet saying what is unexpected, unpopular, yet godly, a weak king who does not stop those in power from doing what they want. It is an interesting parallel. But as usual, I hear God whispering to my heart about pride and humility, things He’s been working with me on for a while.
Jeremiah 38:3 “And this is what the Lord says: ‘This city will certainly be given into the hands of the army of the king of Babylon, who will capture it.’”
Jeremiah shared God’s will for the king, His plan to bring His people back to Him: surrender. Can you imagine how much humility it would take to do that? All the judgements on all sides if he surrenders—the people would judge the king, the Babylonians would judge him. But if he doesn’t, God will judge him still more.
Jeremiah 38:4 Then the officials said to the king, “This man should be put to death. He is discouraging the soldiers who are left in this city, as well as all the people, by the things he is saying to them. This man is not seeking the good of these people but their ruin.”
Lord, Pride is an ugly beast. It can make us feel like we have no good options. Humility is often viewed as humiliation in this world. But You call us to humble ourselves, to turn our backs on the world’s opinions, to listen to and obey Your voice. Help me, Lord. Amen.
Jeremiah 38:5 “He is in your hands,” King Zedekiah answered. “The king can do nothing to oppose you.”
Have a blessed day.