The Story - Chapter 17 - Jeremiah 13, 21

Whoa, have you read The Story on page 242 (Jeremiah 21-1-10)?  Talk about God's people hanging on for dear life!  Just think back over the past few weeks; last few days even, in our readings.  God repeatedly pursued the people, holding out His hand, ready to embrace them and welcome them back into the fold.  What did they do?  How did they respond?  They turned their backs yet again, defying God's authority and refusing His love.

Now, they are singing a different tune, one of pleading and begging and groveling for God's hand.

Jeremiah 21:2 (NIV) 
"Inquire now of the LORD for us because Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon is attacking us. Perhaps the LORD will perform wonders for us as in times past so that he will withdraw from us."  

Does the tune this nation is singing sound familiar?  How many times did I sense God calling be back into the fold, how many times did I know in my heart what I was to do next, but stubbornly refused.  Time and again my actions have broken God's heart.  So, when do I turn to Him?  When it is convenient and when I am desperate and always on my terms.  Well, that is exactly what the Israelites are doing in these verses today.  Seems like we never learn.

They/we have been warned there will come a day when God is finished with us.  He is standing firm and ready to teach us the ultimate lesson -- He says what He means and He follows through. These are harsh words and difficult lessons to learn, but it is time for change. 

Jeremiah 21:5-6 (NIV) 

^"I myself will fight against you with an outstretched hand and a mighty arm in anger and fury and great wrath. I will strike down those who live in this city--both men and animals--and they will die of a terrible plague." 

But even in His wrath He give His people a way out.  

Jeremiah 21:8-9 (NIV) 

"Furthermore, tell the people, 'This is what the LORD says: See, I am setting before you the way of life and the way of death. Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, famine or plague. But whoever goes out and surrenders to the Babylonians who are besieging you will live; he will escape with his life." 

Read Jeremiah 13, 21 here

Listen to Jeremiah 13, 21 here