“Then they said to Jeremiah, The LORD be a true and faithful witness between us, if we do not even according to all things for the which the LORD thy God shall send thee to us. Whether it be good, or whether it be evil, we will obey the voice of the LORD our God, to whom we send thee; that it may be well with us, when we obey the voice of the LORD our God.” Jeremiah 42:5-6.

The Book of Jeremiah is filled with stories of how God sent a message to His people, and they failed to obey and because of this suffered God’s judgment.

In Chapter 42, the remnant that was left in Jerusalem were considering going to Egypt, and their leaders came to Jeremiah asking him to request direction from God. They promised to obey whatever God told them to do. In reality, they had already made up their minds and were just wanting confirmation from God that they were doing the right thing. When Jeremiah told them that they were not to go to Egypt, they accused Jeremiah of lying to them and went ahead with their plans. God promised judgment for their actions.

It is important that when we are facing decisions and go to the Lord for guidance and direction, that we have an open mind. If we already have decided what we are going to do, and the Lord shows us that this is not the right path, we need to be obedient to His voice. He knows the future and knows what is best for us, although we may think we know better. If we listen and obey, we will have His blessing, but if we walk in our own way, we will no doubt face problems and heartache.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we are human and prone to error. You know what is best for our lives. Help us to listen to your direction and walk in the way You would have us go.

Devotion by Anne Johnston

 

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