Category Archives: Consequences of Sin

All Powerful / King of All, Depression / Discouragement, Discipline / Guidance From God, Help / Serve Others, Seeking God, Tribulation

Job Rebukes Bildad While Acknowledging God’s Unfathomable Power (Job 26)

Have you ever found yourself frustrated by well-intentioned advice that misses the mark, leaving you longing for deeper understanding and meaning in the face of life’s challenges?

In Job 26, we witness Job’s response to Bildad’s counsel, which falls short of addressing the profound mysteries of his suffering. Join us as we delve into Job’s rebuke of Bildad and his awe-inspiring acknowledgment of God’s incomparable power amidst ongoing tension with his friends.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters, Job has been locked in a heated debate with his friends, who insist that his afflictions are a result of his own sin. Job maintains his innocence and wrestles with the mysteries of his suffering.

Now, in Job 26, he responds to Bildad’s speech by agreeing that God’s unmatched might is obvious but calling out the inadequacy of his friend’s counsel.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 26

Job Rebukes Bildad

      1Then Job responded,

      2“What a help you are to the weak!
How you have saved the arm without strength!

      3“What counsel you have given to one without wisdom!
What helpful insight you have abundantly provided!

      4“To whom have you uttered words?
And whose spirit was expressed through you?


The Greatness of God

5“The departed spirits tremble
Under the waters and their inhabitants.

      6“Naked is Sheol before Him,
And Abaddon has no covering.

      7“He stretches out the north over empty space
And hangs the earth on nothing.

      8“He wraps up the waters in His clouds,
And the cloud does not burst under them.

      9“He obscures the face of the full moon
And spreads His cloud over it.

      10“He has inscribed a circle on the surface of the waters
At the boundary of light and darkness.

      11“The pillars of heaven tremble
And are amazed at His rebuke.

      12“He quieted the sea with His power,
And by His understanding He shattered Rahab.

      13“By His breath the heavens are cleared;
His hand has pierced the fleeing serpent.

      14“Behold, these are the fringes of His ways;
And how faint a word we hear of Him!
But His mighty thunder, who can understand?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Rebuke of Bildad: Job begins his response by rebuking Bildad’s unhelpful counsel, highlighting its failure to provide answers to his deep questions about suffering.
  2. God’s Unfathomable Power: Job praises God’s incomprehensible power, emphasizing His ability to suspend the earth over nothingness and to govern the universe with divine wisdom.
  3. Ongoing Tension: This passage illustrates the ongoing tension between Job and his friends, as he challenges their understanding and seeks deeper insights into the mysteries of his suffering.
  4. Job’s Profound Acknowledgment: Despite the disagreements and frustrations, Job acknowledges the majesty of God’s creation, underscoring the humility that comes with recognizing our human limitations.

Call to Action: Let Job’s response remind us of the importance of seeking a deeper understanding of God’s ways in the midst of life’s challenges. Reflect on moments when well-intentioned advice fell short and left you seeking a higher wisdom. Offer a prayer for wisdom and guidance in times of uncertainty and frustration.

Prayer: Gracious God, we acknowledge Your unfathomable wisdom and power. Help us to seek deeper understanding in times of confusion and frustration. Grant us the humility to recognize our limitations and the patience to await Your divine answers. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share your thoughts on Job’s rebuke of Bildad and the ongoing tension between Job and his friends. Reflect on the importance of seeking deeper understanding and wisdom when facing life’s profound questions. Engage in a conversation with friends or family, exploring the significance of humility in our faith journey.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Consequences of Sin, Father / Yahweh, Fear / Reverence for God, Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Grace / Forgiveness, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Righteous

The Incomparable God: Bildad’s Reflection (Job 25)

Hook: Have you ever found yourself utterly awed by the greatness of God, leaving you at a loss for words to describe His immense power and wisdom?

In Job 25, Bildad the Shuhite offers a brief reflection on the incomparable nature of God, emphasizing that, in comparison, none of us are without sin, not even Job.

Join us as we delve into this concise yet profound passage and gain a deeper understanding of the majesty of our Creator.

Reconnect: As we delve into Job 25, we find Bildad continuing his discourse in response to Job’s lamentations and questions. In the previous chapters, Job has expressed his deep anguish and desire to present his case before God. Bildad’s words here offer a perspective on God’s absolute holiness and supremacy. It’s worth noting that Bildad’s answer, like those of his friends, continues to suggest that Job’s suffering is a consequence of his sin—a notion that Job vehemently rejects, leading to an ongoing theological debate.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 25

Bildad Says Man Is Inferior

      1Then Bildad the Shuhite answered,

      2“Dominion and awe belong to Him
Who establishes peace in His heights.

      3“Is there any number to His troops?
And upon whom does His light not rise?

      4“How then can a man be just with God?
Or how can he be clean who is born of woman?

      5“If even the moon has no brightness
And the stars are not pure in His sight,

      6How much less man, that maggot,
And the son of man, that worm!”

Summary Key Points:

  1. God’s Unapproachable Holiness: Bildad begins by acknowledging the inaccessibility of God’s holiness. He describes God as the One who brings order to the heavens and possesses unapproachable majesty. This recognition underscores the vast gulf between humanity and the Creator.
  2. Human Insignificance: Bildad highlights the frailty and imperfection of humanity when compared to the purity and perfection of God. He asks a rhetorical question: “How then can man be righteous before God?” This question serves as a reminder that human righteousness falls short in the presence of divine holiness.
  3. The Need for Mediation: Bildad’s words indirectly point to the need for a mediator between humanity and God. Recognizing the vast chasm that separates us from God’s holiness, Bildad implies the necessity of someone who can bridge that gap—a role that foreshadows the ultimate Mediator, Jesus Christ.
  4. Job’s Ongoing Search: While Bildad’s words emphasize the unapproachable nature of God, they do not offer comfort or resolution to Job’s suffering. Job continues to seek answers and understanding, grappling with the profound mysteries of his circumstances and God’s ways.

Call to Action: As we reflect on Job 25, let us also contemplate the incomparable holiness and greatness of our Creator. Take a moment to meditate on the majesty of God and the inherent limitations of human righteousness.

In times of struggle and questioning, remember that God is beyond our comprehension, yet He invites us into a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ, our Mediator. Seek a deeper understanding of His holiness, and allow it to inspire awe and reverence in your heart.

Prayer: Almighty God, we stand in awe of Your unapproachable holiness and majesty. Help us to recognize our limitations and imperfections in comparison to Your perfection. Thank you for providing Jesus as our Mediator, bridging the gap between us and Your holiness. May we continually seek a deeper understanding of Your greatness and approach You with reverence. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Consequences of Sin, Depression / Discouragement, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Justice / Judgment, Tribulation, Wickedness / Evil

Exploring the Mystery of God’s Justice: Why Are the Wicked Not Punished? (Job 24)

Have you ever pondered the apparent success of those who act wickedly, seemingly untouched by the consequences of their actions?

In the Book of Job, we encounter a chapter that delves into the mystery of why the wicked sometimes prosper while the innocent suffer. Job’s contemplation leads us to explore the ways of the wicked and the justice of God.

Reconnect: As we continue our journey through the Book of Job, we find Job still wrestling with his suffering, while his friends offer various explanations for his afflictions. Despite their debates, Job remains steadfast in declaring his innocence and in the pursuit of understanding God’s ways.

(Summarized and continued after the  scripture)

Job 24

Job Says God Seems to Ignore Wrongs

1“Why are times not stored up by the Almighty,
And why do those who know Him not see His days?

      2“Some remove the landmarks;
They seize and devour flocks.

      3“They drive away the donkeys of the orphans;
They take the widow’s ox for a pledge.

      4“They push the needy aside from the road;
The poor of the land are made to hide themselves altogether.

      5“Behold, as wild donkeys in the wilderness
They go forth seeking food in their activity,
As bread for their children in the desert.

      6“They harvest their fodder in the field
And glean the vineyard of the wicked.

      7“They spend the night naked, without clothing,
And have no covering against the cold.

      8“They are wet with the mountain rains
And hug the rock for want of a shelter.

      9“Others snatch the orphan from the breast,
And against the poor they take a pledge.

      10“They cause the poor to go about naked without clothing,
And they take away the sheaves from the hungry.

      11“Within the walls they produce oil;
They tread wine presses but thirst.

      12“From the city men groan,
And the souls of the wounded cry out;
Yet God does not pay attention to folly.

      13“Others have been with those who rebel against the light;
They do not want to know its ways
Nor abide in its paths.

      14“The murderer arises at dawn;
He kills the poor and the needy,
And at night he is as a thief.

      15“The eye of the adulterer waits for the twilight,
Saying, ‘No eye will see me.’
And he disguises his face.

      16“In the dark they dig into houses,
They shut themselves up by day;
They do not know the light.

      17“For the morning is the same to him as thick darkness,
For he is familiar with the terrors of thick darkness.

      18“They are insignificant on the surface of the water;
Their portion is cursed on the earth.
They do not turn toward the vineyards.

      19“Drought and heat consume the snow waters,
So does Sheol those who have sinned.

      20“A mother will forget him;
The worm feeds sweetly till he is no longer remembered.
And wickedness will be broken like a tree.

      21“He wrongs the barren woman
And does no good for the widow.

      22“But He drags off the valiant by His power;
He rises, but no one has assurance of life.

      23“He provides them with security, and they are supported;
And His eyes are on their ways.

      24“They are exalted a little while, then they are gone;
Moreover, they are brought low and like everything gathered up;
Even like the heads of grain they are cut off.

      25“Now if it is not so, who can prove me a liar,
And make my speech worthless?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. The Unpunished Wicked: In Job 24, Job questions why the wicked often seem to escape punishment for their deeds. He observes how they exploit the vulnerable, take advantage of the helpless, and go about their wickedness without apparent consequences. This perplexing reality prompts Job to reflect on the seeming absence of divine justice in the world.
  2. The Cry of the Afflicted: Amid his contemplation, Job highlights the cries of the oppressed and the afflicted. He emphasizes the anguish of those who suffer at the hands of the wicked, emphasizing their desperate pleas for relief. Job’s reflections draw attention to the harsh conditions endured by the innocent.
  3. God’s Timing and Justice: While Job acknowledges the apparent success of the wicked, he doesn’t lose sight of God’s ultimate justice. He recognizes that, even though justice may not be immediate, the wicked will face their reckoning in due time. Job’s insights remind us that God’s timing may differ from our own, but His justice is certain.
  4. Application for Our Lives: Job’s contemplation prompts us to consider the existence of wickedness and injustice in the world. It reminds us that we live in a fallen world where the wicked may sometimes prosper, and the innocent suffer. However, we are encouraged to maintain our faith in God’s ultimate justice, even when we cannot fully comprehend His ways.

Call to Action: Take a moment to reflect on the injustices you may have observed or experienced in the world. Just as Job questioned the ways of the wicked, consider how you can advocate for justice and support those who are oppressed. Pray for God’s guidance in seeking justice and trust in His ultimate plan for righteousness.

Additionally, share your thoughts and engage in discussions with friends and family about the complex issues of justice, wickedness, and the role of faith in navigating these challenges.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Consequences of Sin, Depression / Discouragement, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Justice / Judgment, Tribulation

Contemplating the Prosperity of the Wicked (Job 21)

Have you ever been engaged in a deep conversation where your find yourself responding to something hurtful that someone else has said to you?

Job finds himself in such a conversation as he responds to the arguments put forth by his friends. In Job 21, we delve into Job’s contemplation of the prosperity of the wicked, which serves as a counter-argument to his friends’ assertions.

Reconnect: In the previous chapter, we witnessed Zophar, one of Job’s friends, presenting his perspective on the fate of the wicked. Zophar discussed the apparent success of the wicked and their eventual downfall, emphasizing divine judgment. Job now responds to these ideas, providing a unique perspective on the topic.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 21

Job Says God Will Deal with the Wicked

      1Then Job answered,

      2“Listen carefully to my speech,
And let this be your way of consolation.

      3“Bear with me that I may speak;
Then after I have spoken, you may mock.

      4“As for me, is my complaint to man?
And why should I not be impatient?

      5“Look at me, and be astonished,
And put your hand over your mouth.

      6“Even when I remember, I am disturbed,
And horror takes hold of my flesh.

      7“Why do the wicked still live,
Continue on, also become very powerful?

      8“Their descendants are established with them in their sight,
And their offspring before their eyes,

      9Their houses are safe from fear,
And the rod of God is not on them.

      10“His ox mates without fail;
His cow calves and does not abort.

      11“They send forth their little ones like the flock,
And their children skip about.

      12“They sing to the timbrel and harp
And rejoice at the sound of the flute.

      13“They spend their days in prosperity,
And suddenly they go down to Sheol.

      14“They say to God, ‘Depart from us!
We do not even desire the knowledge of Your ways.

      15‘Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him,
And what would we gain if we entreat Him?’

      16“Behold, their prosperity is not in their hand;
The counsel of the wicked is far from me.

      17“How often is the lamp of the wicked put out,
Or does their calamity fall on them?
Does God apportion destruction in His anger?

      18“Are they as straw before the wind,
And like chaff which the storm carries away?

      19“You say, ‘God stores away a man’s iniquity for his sons.’
Let God repay him so that he may know it.

      20“Let his own eyes see his decay,
And let him drink of the wrath of the Almighty.

      21“For what does he care for his household after him,
When the number of his months is cut off?

      22“Can anyone teach God knowledge,
In that He judges those on high?

      23“One dies in his full strength,
Being wholly at ease and satisfied;

      24His sides are filled out with fat,
And the marrow of his bones is moist,

      25While another dies with a bitter soul,
Never even tasting anything good.

      26“Together they lie down in the dust,
And worms cover them.

      27“Behold, I know your thoughts,
And the plans by which you would wrong me.

      28“For you say, ‘Where is the house of the nobleman,
And where is the tent, the dwelling places of the wicked?’

      29“Have you not asked wayfaring men,
And do you not recognize their witness?

      30“For the wicked is reserved for the day of calamity;
They will be led forth at the day of fury.

      31“Who will confront him with his actions,
And who will repay him for what he has done?

      32“While he is carried to the grave,
Men will keep watch over his tomb.

      33“The clods of the valley will gently cover him;
Moreover, all men will follow after him,
While countless ones go before him.

      34“How then will you vainly comfort me,
For your answers remain full of falsehood?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Counter-Argument: Job offers a thought-provoking counter-argument to his friends’ assertions about the fate of the wicked. He acknowledges the reality that, at times, the wicked do indeed prosper, enjoying long lives, secure households, flourishing children, and abundant possessions.
  2. Questioning Divine Justice: Job’s response raises profound questions about divine justice. He wonders aloud why the wicked appear to escape suffering while they mock God and live without fear of divine retribution.
  3. The Unpredictability of Life: Job highlights the unpredictability of life, where both the righteous and the wicked may face suffering or prosperity, challenging the simplistic views of his friends.

Job’s response encourages us to reflect on the complexities of life and divine justice. Have you ever grappled with the apparent prosperity of those who seem far from righteous? Take time to pray and seek God’s wisdom in understanding the mysteries of life’s experiences and His divine plan.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we humbly seek Your wisdom and guidance as we navigate life’s complexities. Help us to understand the mysteries of Your divine justice and the unpredictable nature of our journey. Grant us discernment and a heart filled with compassion. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share your thoughts on the questions raised by Job’s response. Have you ever questioned why the wicked appear to prosper while living in defiance of God? Engage in meaningful discussions with friends and family, and feel free to share your reflections in the comments below.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Consequences of Sin, Justice / Judgment, Wickedness / Evil

The Illusion of Success in Wickedness (Job 20)

Have you ever encountered individuals who appear to thrive in their wicked ways, seemingly experiencing prolonged success?

It can be perplexing and disheartening to witness.

In Job 20, we explore the insights shared by Job’s friends as they grapple with the notion that the wicked can prosper for an extended period, leading us to consider the ultimate judgment that awaits them in the presence of God.

Reconnect: In the Book of Job, we find ourselves amidst a series of intense dialogues between Job and his friends. Job has been enduring unimaginable suffering, and his friends, including Zophar, have been attempting to explain the reasons behind his trials. Job’s friends continue to hold to the belief that Job’s suffering is a consequence of his sin, leading to their ongoing discussions and debates.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 20

Zophar Says, “The Triumph of the Wicked Is Short”

      1Then Zophar the Naamathite answered,

      2“Therefore my disquieting thoughts make me respond,
Even because of my inward agitation.

      3“I listened to the reproof which insults me,
And the spirit of my understanding makes me answer.

      4“Do you know this from of old,
From the establishment of man on earth,

      5That the triumphing of the wicked is short,
And the joy of the godless momentary?

      6“Though his loftiness reaches the heavens,
And his head touches the clouds,

      7He perishes forever like his refuse;
Those who have seen him will say, ‘Where is he?’

      8“He flies away like a dream, and they cannot find him;
Even like a vision of the night he is chased away.

      9“The eye which saw him sees him no longer,
And his place no longer beholds him.

      10“His sons favor the poor,
And his hands give back his wealth.

      11“His bones are full of his youthful vigor,
But it lies down with him in the dust.

      12“Though evil is sweet in his mouth
And he hides it under his tongue,

      13Though he desires it and will not let it go,
But holds it in his mouth,

      14Yet his food in his stomach is changed
To the venom of cobras within him.

      15“He swallows riches,
But will vomit them up;
God will expel them from his belly.

      16“He sucks the poison of cobras;
The viper’s tongue slays him.

      17“He does not look at the streams,
The rivers flowing with honey and curds.

      18“He returns what he has attained
And cannot swallow it;
As to the riches of his trading,
He cannot even enjoy them.

      19“For he has oppressed and forsaken the poor;
He has seized a house which he has not built.

      20“Because he knew no quiet within him,
He does not retain anything he desires.

      21“Nothing remains for him to devour,
Therefore his prosperity does not endure.

      22“In the fullness of his plenty he will be cramped;
The hand of everyone who suffers will come against him.

      23“When he fills his belly,
God will send His fierce anger on him
And will rain it on him while he is eating.

      24“He may flee from the iron weapon,
But the bronze bow will pierce him.

      25“It is drawn forth and comes out of his back,
Even the glittering point from his gall.
Terrors come upon him,

      26Complete darkness is held in reserve for his treasures,
And unfanned fire will devour him;
It will consume the survivor in his tent.

      27“The heavens will reveal his iniquity,
And the earth will rise up against him.

      28“The increase of his house will depart;
His possessions will flow away in the day of His anger.

      29“This is the wicked man’s portion from God,
Even the heritage decreed to him by God.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Zophar’s Perspective: In Job 20, Zophar offers his perspective on the fate of the wicked. He presents the idea that the wicked may experience periods of success, giving the impression that they thrive in their wickedness.
  2. Apparent Prosperity: Zophar paints a vivid picture of the wicked’s apparent prosperity, describing their opulent lifestyles, flourishing enterprises, and the illusion of sustained triumph.
  3. The Swift Demise: Despite their success, Zophar warns that the wicked will eventually face a sudden and irreversible downfall. He speaks of God’s judgment, which will ultimately overtake them.

Let us reflect on the ongoing discussions in the Book of Job and consider the choices we make in our lives. Have you ever questioned why the wicked seem to prosper? Take a moment to pray for discernment in understanding divine justice and to seek God’s guidance in your own journey.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before you seeking wisdom and discernment. Help us understand the complexities of divine justice, especially when we witness the apparent success of the wicked. Guide us in our own choices, and may we trust in your ultimate judgment. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share your thoughts on the challenges posed by the success of the wicked. Have you questioned why it seems that sometimes they thrive?

Engage in discussions with friends and family, and feel free to comment below to share your insights and reflections.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Discipline / Guidance From God, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Protector / Deliverer, Seeking God, Tribulation

Nurture Hope and Trust (in God) in the Face of Adversity (Job 5)

Embark on a quest for wisdom in the midst of adversity as we delve into Job 5. Eliphaz, Job’s friend, continues to share insights, offering a perspective on finding solace and understanding in times of trial. Join us on a contemplative journey through this chapter as we explore the enduring quest for wisdom and the age-old question of how to navigate the storms of life.

(Summarized and continued after scripture.)

Job 5

God Is Just

1“Call now, is there anyone who will answer you?
And to which of the holy ones will you turn?

      2“For anger slays the foolish man,
And jealousy kills the simple.

      3“I have seen the foolish taking root,
And I cursed his abode immediately.

      4“His sons are far from safety,
They are even oppressed in the gate,
And there is no deliverer.

      5“His harvest the hungry devour
And take it to a place of thorns,
And the schemer is eager for their wealth.

      6“For affliction does not come from the dust,
Nor does trouble sprout from the ground,

      7For man is born for trouble,
As sparks fly upward.

      8“But as for me, I would seek God,
And I would place my cause before God;

      9Who does great and unsearchable things,
Wonders without number.

      10“He gives rain on the earth
And sends water on the fields,

      11So that He sets on high those who are lowly,
And those who mourn are lifted to safety.

      12“He frustrates the plotting of the shrewd,
So that their hands cannot attain success.

      13“He captures the wise by their own shrewdness,
And the advice of the cunning is quickly thwarted.

      14“By day they meet with darkness,
And grope at noon as in the night.

      15“But He saves from the sword of their mouth,
And the poor from the hand of the mighty.

      16“So the helpless has hope,
And unrighteousness must shut its mouth.

      17“Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves,
So do not despise the discipline of the Almighty.

      18“For He inflicts pain, and gives relief;
He wounds, and His hands also heal.

      19“From six troubles He will deliver you,
Even in seven evil will not touch you.

      20“In famine He will redeem you from death,
And in war from the power of the sword.

      21“You will be hidden from the scourge of the tongue,
And you will not be afraid of violence when it comes.

      22“You will laugh at violence and famine,
And you will not be afraid of wild beasts.

      23“For you will be in league with the stones of the field,
And the beasts of the field will be at peace with you.

      24“You will know that your tent is secure,
For you will visit your abode and fear no loss.

      25“You will know also that your descendants will be many,
And your offspring as the grass of the earth.

      26“You will come to the grave in full vigor,
Like the stacking of grain in its season.

      27“Behold this; we have investigated it, and so it is.
Hear it, and know for yourself.”

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Call to Seek God’s Wisdom: Job 5 opens with Eliphaz encouraging Job to seek God’s wisdom in the face of adversity. Eliphaz believes that turning to the Almighty is the key to finding understanding and solace in times of trouble.
  2. The Concept of Divine Discipline: Eliphaz introduces the idea that suffering may be a form of divine discipline, suggesting that God uses challenges to correct and guide His people. This perspective reflects a common theological understanding of the time.
  3. God’s Unfathomable Ways: Eliphaz emphasizes the incomprehensibility of God’s ways, suggesting that humans cannot fully understand the intricacies of divine actions. The chapter invites contemplation on the limits of human understanding when confronted with the mysteries of life.
  4. The Promise of Restoration: Amidst discussions of discipline and the inscrutable nature of God’s ways, Eliphaz concludes with a hopeful note, asserting that those who seek God’s wisdom and endure trials with patience will ultimately experience restoration and blessings.

As we navigate the timeless wisdom of Job 5, let’s reflect on the quest for understanding and solace in the face of life’s challenges.

How do we approach adversity with a seeking heart, and what role does divine wisdom play in our lives?

Share your thoughts on the concept of divine discipline and the promise of restoration.

Job 5 invites us to embrace a humble search for wisdom, acknowledging the limits of our understanding while trusting in the goodness of a God whose ways surpass our comprehension.

Join the conversation, and let’s explore together the enduring truths embedded in this chapter.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Hope, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Lessons from the Ruins – A Finale to Reflect On (Jeremiah 52)

As we journey through the book of Jeremiah, the grand narrative culminates in Chapter 52, providing a powerful reflection on the consequences of disobedience to God and the enduring hope for restoration.

Let’s explore this concluding chapter, extracting profound lessons that resonate with us today.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Devastation of Jerusalem: Jeremiah 52 recounts the tragic fall of Jerusalem, highlighting the consequences of rebellion against God. The destruction serves as a stark reminder of the importance of heeding divine warnings and living in alignment with God’s will.
  2. The Captivity and Exile: The chapter chronicles the captivity of King Jehoiachin and the people of Judah, emphasizing the sobering reality of exile as a consequence of disobedience. It prompts us to reflect on the impact of our choices on our spiritual journey.
  3. The Hope of Restoration: Amidst the ruins, there is a glimmer of hope. The release of King Jehoiachin from prison signifies the potential for restoration and redemption. Even in the darkest moments, God’s mercy and the possibility of renewal shine through.
  4. Reflection on the Temple’s Destruction: Jeremiah 52 revisits the detailed account of the destruction of the Temple, a symbol of God’s presence. This reflection prompts us to consider the sacredness of our spiritual spaces and the need for vigilance in preserving our relationship with God.

As we conclude our exploration of Jeremiah in Chapter 52 (full text below), let’s reflect on the profound lessons embedded in the ruins of Jerusalem.

How can we learn from the mistakes of the past and ensure that our choices align with God’s will?

Share your insights and thoughts on the themes of restoration, redemption, and the sacredness of our spiritual journey in the comments.

Together, let’s draw inspiration from Jeremiah 52 to navigate the complexities of our lives and embrace the hope for renewal in the midst of challenges.

Jeremiah 52

The Fall of Jerusalem

      1Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem; and his mother’s name was Hamutal the daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah. 2He did evil in the sight of the LORD like all that Jehoiakim had done. 3For through the anger of the LORD this came about in Jerusalem and Judah until He cast them out from His presence. And Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. 4Now it came about in the ninth year of his reign, on the tenth day of the tenth month, that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came, he and all his army, against Jerusalem, camped against it and built a siege wall all around it. 5So the city was under siege until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah. 6On the ninth day of the fourth month the famine was so severe in the city that there was no food for the people of the land. 7Then the city was broken into, and all the men of war fled and went forth from the city at night by way of the gate between the two walls which was by the king’s garden, though the Chaldeans were all around the city. And they went by way of the Arabah. 8But the army of the Chaldeans pursued the king and overtook Zedekiah in the plains of Jericho, and all his army was scattered from him. 9Then they captured the king and brought him up to the king of Babylon at Riblah in the land of Hamath, and he passed sentence on him. 10The king of Babylon slaughtered the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and he also slaughtered all the princes of Judah in Riblah. 11Then he blinded the eyes of Zedekiah; and the king of Babylon bound him with bronze fetters and brought him to Babylon and put him in prison until the day of his death.

      12Now on the tenth day of the fifth month, which was the nineteenth year of King Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, Nebuzaradan the captain of the bodyguard, who was in the service of the king of Babylon, came to Jerusalem. 13He burned the house of the LORD, the king’s house and all the houses of Jerusalem; even every large house he burned with fire. 14So all the army of the Chaldeans who were with the captain of the guard broke down all the walls around Jerusalem. 15Then Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carried away into exile some of the poorest of the people, the rest of the people who were left in the city, the deserters who had deserted to the king of Babylon and the rest of the artisans. 16But Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard left some of the poorest of the land to be vinedressers and plowmen.

      17Now the bronze pillars which belonged to the house of the LORD and the stands and the bronze sea, which were in the house of the LORD, the Chaldeans broke in pieces and carried all their bronze to Babylon. 18They also took away the pots, the shovels, the snuffers, the basins, the pans and all the bronze vessels which were used in temple service. 19The captain of the guard also took away the bowls, the firepans, the basins, the pots, the lampstands, the pans and the drink offering bowls, what was fine gold and what was fine silver. 20The two pillars, the one sea, and the twelve bronze bulls that were under the sea, and the stands, which King Solomon had made for the house of the LORD—the bronze of all these vessels was beyond weight. 21As for the pillars, the height of each pillar was eighteen cubits, and it was twelve cubits in circumference and four fingers in thickness, and hollow. 22Now a capital of bronze was on it; and the height of each capital was five cubits, with network and pomegranates upon the capital all around, all of bronze. And the second pillar was like these, including pomegranates. 23There were ninety-six exposed pomegranates; all the pomegranates numbered a hundred on the network all around.

      24Then the captain of the guard took Seraiah the chief priest and Zephaniah the second priest, with the three officers of the temple. 25He also took from the city one official who was overseer of the men of war, and seven of the king’s advisers who were found in the city, and the scribe of the commander of the army who mustered the people of the land, and sixty men of the people of the land who were found in the midst of the city. 26Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard took them and brought them to the king of Babylon at Riblah. 27Then the king of Babylon struck them down and put them to death at Riblah in the land of Hamath. So Judah was led away into exile from its land.

      28These are the people whom Nebuchadnezzar carried away into exile: in the seventh year 3,023 Jews; 29in the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar 832 persons from Jerusalem; 30in the twenty-third year of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carried into exile 745 Jewish people; there were 4,600 persons in all.

      31Now it came about in the thirty-seventh year of the exile of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the twelfth month, on the twenty-fifth of the month, that Evil-merodach king of Babylon, in the first year of his reign, showed favor to Jehoiachin king of Judah and brought him out of prison. 32Then he spoke kindly to him and set his throne above the thrones of the kings who were with him in Babylon. 33So Jehoiachin changed his prison clothes, and had his meals in the king’s presence regularly all the days of his life. 34For his allowance, a regular allowance was given him by the king of Babylon, a daily portion all the days of his life until the day of his death.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Arrogance, Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Faith / Trusting God, Justice / Judgment, Repenting from Sin, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Lessons from the Ruin of Babylon for Modern Times (Jeremiah 51)

In the pages of Jeremiah 51, we uncover a fascinating tale of an ancient empire’s rise and fall. But it’s not just a history lesson; it’s a timeless message that speaks to our world today. Discover the surprising relevance of this ancient prophecy for our lives.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Pride and Hubris of Empires: Just as Babylon’s pride led to its downfall, nations and individuals today are reminded of the danger of arrogance and tyranny.
  2. The Role of Divine Justice: Jeremiah 51 illustrates the role of divine justice in the course of history, emphasizing the need for righteousness, obedience, and compassion in our actions.
  3. The Power of Faith: In the midst of upheaval and uncertainty, Jeremiah’s message also highlights the power of faith in God to guide us through turbulent times.
  4. The Call for Transformation: The lessons from Babylon’s fall challenge us to examine our own lives and societies, striving for positive change and a commitment to God’s values.

Jeremiah 51 beckons us to look beyond the historical narrative and reflect on the values and principles that still resonate today. As we explore the rise and fall of Babylon, let’s examine our own lives and the world we live in. How can we seek justice, humility, obedience to God, and righteousness in our actions? How can we avoid the pitfalls of pride and arrogance?

Let’s draw inspiration from this ancient text and make a commitment to live by these timeless values. Share your thoughts and be part of the ongoing conversation about the relevance of Jeremiah 51 in our lives today!

Jeremiah 51

Babylon Judged for Sins against Israel

      1Thus says the LORD:
“Behold, I am going to arouse against Babylon
And against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai
The spirit of a destroyer.

      2“I will dispatch foreigners to Babylon that they may winnow her
And may devastate her land;
For on every side they will be opposed to her
In the day of her calamity.

      3“Let not him who bends his bow bend it,
Nor let him rise up in his scale-armor;
So do not spare her young men;
Devote all her army to destruction.

      4“They will fall down slain in the land of the Chaldeans,
And pierced through in their streets.”

      5For neither Israel nor Judah has been forsaken
By his God, the LORD of hosts,
Although their land is full of guilt
Before the Holy One of Israel.

      6Flee from the midst of Babylon,
And each of you save his life!
Do not be destroyed in her punishment,
For this is the LORD’S time of vengeance;
He is going to render recompense to her.

      7Babylon has been a golden cup in the hand of the LORD,
Intoxicating all the earth.
The nations have drunk of her wine;
Therefore the nations are going mad.

      8Suddenly Babylon has fallen and been broken;
Wail over her!
Bring balm for her pain;
Perhaps she may be healed.

      9We applied healing to Babylon, but she was not healed;
Forsake her and let us each go to his own country,
For her judgment has reached to heaven
And towers up to the very skies.

      10The LORD has brought about our vindication;
Come and let us recount in Zion
The work of the LORD our God!

      11Sharpen the arrows, fill the quivers!
The LORD has aroused the spirit of the kings of the Medes,
Because His purpose is against Babylon to destroy it;
For it is the vengeance of the LORD, vengeance for His temple.

      12Lift up a signal against the walls of Babylon;
Post a strong guard,
Station sentries,
Place men in ambush!
For the LORD has both purposed and performed
What He spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon.

      13O you who dwell by many waters,
Abundant in treasures,
Your end has come,
The measure of your end.

      14The LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself:
“Surely I will fill you with a population like locusts,
And they will cry out with shouts of victory over you.”

      15It is He who made the earth by His power,
Who established the world by His wisdom,
And by His understanding He stretched out the heavens.

      16When He utters His voice, there is a tumult of waters in the heavens,
And He causes the clouds to ascend from the end of the earth;
He makes lightning for the rain
And brings forth the wind from His storehouses.

      17All mankind is stupid, devoid of knowledge;
Every goldsmith is put to shame by his idols,
For his molten images are deceitful,
And there is no breath in them.

      18They are worthless, a work of mockery;
In the time of their punishment they will perish.

      19The portion of Jacob is not like these;
For the Maker of all is He,
And of the tribe of His inheritance;
The LORD of hosts is His name.

      20He says, “You are My war-club, My weapon of war;
And with you I shatter nations,
And with you I destroy kingdoms.

      21“With you I shatter the horse and his rider,
And with you I shatter the chariot and its rider,

      22And with you I shatter man and woman,
And with you I shatter old man and youth,
And with you I shatter young man and virgin,

      23And with you I shatter the shepherd and his flock,
And with you I shatter the farmer and his team,
And with you I shatter governors and prefects.

      24“But I will repay Babylon and all the inhabitants of Chaldea for all their evil that they have done in Zion before your eyes,” declares the LORD.

      25“Behold, I am against you, O destroying mountain,
Who destroys the whole earth,” declares the LORD,
“And I will stretch out My hand against you,
And roll you down from the crags,
And I will make you a burnt out mountain.

      26“They will not take from you even a stone for a corner
Nor a stone for foundations,
But you will be desolate forever,” declares the LORD.

      27Lift up a signal in the land,
Blow a trumpet among the nations!
Consecrate the nations against her,
Summon against her the kingdoms of Ararat, Minni and Ashkenaz;
Appoint a marshal against her,
Bring up the horses like bristly locusts.

      28Consecrate the nations against her,
The kings of the Medes,
Their governors and all their prefects,
And every land of their dominion.

      29So the land quakes and writhes,
For the purposes of the LORD against Babylon stand,
To make the land of Babylon
A desolation without inhabitants.

      30The mighty men of Babylon have ceased fighting,
They stay in the strongholds;
Their strength is exhausted,
They are becoming like women;
Their dwelling places are set on fire,
The bars of her gates are broken.

      31One courier runs to meet another,
And one messenger to meet another,
To tell the king of Babylon
That his city has been captured from end to end;

      32The fords also have been seized,
And they have burned the marshes with fire,
And the men of war are terrified.

      33For thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel:
“The daughter of Babylon is like a threshing floor
At the time it is stamped firm;
Yet in a little while the time of harvest will come for her.”

      34“Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon has devoured me and crushed me,
He has set me down like an empty vessel;
He has swallowed me like a monster,
He has filled his stomach with my delicacies;
He has washed me away.

      35“May the violence done to me and to my flesh be upon Babylon,”
The inhabitant of Zion will say;
And, “May my blood be upon the inhabitants of Chaldea,”
Jerusalem will say.

36Therefore thus says the LORD,
“Behold, I am going to plead your case
And exact full vengeance for you;
And I will dry up her sea
And make her fountain dry.

      37“Babylon will become a heap of ruins, a haunt of jackals,
An object of horror and hissing, without inhabitants.

      38“They will roar together like young lions,
They will growl like lions’ cubs.

      39“When they become heated up, I will serve them their banquet
And make them drunk, that they may become jubilant
And may sleep a perpetual sleep
And not wake up,” declares the LORD.

      40“I will bring them down like lambs to the slaughter,
Like rams together with male goats.

      41“How Sheshak has been captured,
And the praise of the whole earth been seized!
How Babylon has become an object of horror among the nations!

      42“The sea has come up over Babylon;
She has been engulfed with its tumultuous waves.

      43“Her cities have become an object of horror,
A parched land and a desert,
A land in which no man lives
And through which no son of man passes.

      44“I will punish Bel in Babylon,
And I will make what he has swallowed come out of his mouth;
And the nations will no longer stream to him.
Even the wall of Babylon has fallen down!

      45“Come forth from her midst, My people,
And each of you save yourselves
From the fierce anger of the LORD.

      46“Now so that your heart does not grow faint,
And you are not afraid at the report that will be heard in the land—
For the report will come one year,
And after that another report in another year,
And violence will be in the land
With ruler against ruler—

      47Therefore behold, days are coming
When I will punish the idols of Babylon;
And her whole land will be put to shame
And all her slain will fall in her midst.

      48“Then heaven and earth and all that is in them
Will shout for joy over Babylon,
For the destroyers will come to her from the north,”
Declares the LORD.

      49Indeed Babylon is to fall for the slain of Israel,
As also for Babylon the slain of all the earth have fallen.

      50You who have escaped the sword,
Depart! Do not stay!
Remember the LORD from afar,
And let Jerusalem come to your mind.

      51We are ashamed because we have heard reproach;
Disgrace has covered our faces,
For aliens have entered
The holy places of the LORD’S house.

      52“Therefore behold, the days are coming,” declares the LORD,
“When I will punish her idols,
And the mortally wounded will groan throughout her land.

      53“Though Babylon should ascend to the heavens,
And though she should fortify her lofty stronghold,
From Me destroyers will come to her,” declares the LORD.

      54The sound of an outcry from Babylon,
And of great destruction from the land of the Chaldeans!

      55For the LORD is going to destroy Babylon,
And He will make her loud noise vanish from her.
And their waves will roar like many waters;
The tumult of their voices sounds forth.

      56For the destroyer is coming against her, against Babylon,
And her mighty men will be captured,
Their bows are shattered;
For the LORD is a God of recompense,
He will fully repay.

      57“I will make her princes and her wise men drunk,
Her governors, her prefects and her mighty men,
That they may sleep a perpetual sleep and not wake up,”
Declares the King, whose name is the LORD of hosts.

58Thus says the LORD of hosts,
“The broad wall of Babylon will be completely razed
And her high gates will be set on fire;
So the peoples will toil for nothing,
And the nations become exhausted only for fire.”

      59The message which Jeremiah the prophet commanded Seraiah the son of Neriah, the grandson of Mahseiah, when he went with Zedekiah the king of Judah to Babylon in the fourth year of his reign. (Now Seraiah was quartermaster.) 60So Jeremiah wrote in a single scroll all the calamity which would come upon Babylon, that is, all these words which have been written concerning Babylon. 61Then Jeremiah said to Seraiah, “As soon as you come to Babylon, then see that you read all these words aloud, 62and say, ‘You, O LORD, have promised concerning this place to cut it off, so that there will be nothing dwelling in it, whether man or beast, but it will be a perpetual desolation.’ 63“And as soon as you finish reading this scroll, you will tie a stone to it and throw it into the middle of the Euphrates, 64and say, ‘Just so shall Babylon sink down and not rise again because of the calamity that I am going to bring upon her; and they will become exhausted.’” Thus far are the words of Jeremiah.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Justice / Judgment, Protector / Deliverer, Repenting from Sin, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Lessons from the Fall of Babylon for Today (Jeremiah 50)

Explore the ancient prophecies of Jeremiah 50 and uncover their startling relevance to our modern world. Discover how the rise and fall of mighty Babylon holds crucial lessons for us, and see how this chapter’s messages are still echoing through the ages.

Jeremiah 50 beckons us to recognize that the values of justice, humility, and righteousness are not subjective, but they are rooted in the very character of God. As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, it’s essential to turn to the unchanging source of these values. God’s standards offer a solid foundation for our decisions and actions.

Let us take the wisdom from this ancient prophecy to heart, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of these enduring values. In doing so, we can work towards creating a world where justice prevails, humility is celebrated, and righteousness leads the way.

Will we allow God’s values to shape our lives and the world around us?

Jeremiah 50

Prophecy against Babylon

      1The word which the LORD spoke concerning Babylon, the land of the Chaldeans, through Jeremiah the prophet:

      2“Declare and proclaim among the nations.
Proclaim it and lift up a standard.
Do not conceal it but say,
‘Babylon has been captured,
Bel has been put to shame, Marduk has been shattered;
Her images have been put to shame, her idols have been shattered.’

3“For a nation has come up against her out of the north; it will make her land an object of horror, and there will be no inhabitant in it. Both man and beast have wandered off, they have gone away!

      4“In those days and at that time,” declares the LORD, “the sons of Israel will come, both they and the sons of Judah as well; they will go along weeping as they go, and it will be the LORD their God they will seek. 5“They will ask for the way to Zion, turning their faces in its direction; they will come that they may join themselves to the LORD in an everlasting covenant that will not be forgotten.

      6“My people have become lost sheep;
Their shepherds have led them astray.
They have made them turn aside on the mountains;
They have gone along from mountain to hill
And have forgotten their resting place.

      7“All who came upon them have devoured them;
And their adversaries have said, ‘We are not guilty,
Inasmuch as they have sinned against the LORD who is the habitation of righteousness,
Even the LORD, the hope of their fathers.’

      8“Wander away from the midst of Babylon
And go forth from the land of the Chaldeans;
Be also like male goats at the head of the flock.

      9“For behold, I am going to arouse and bring up against Babylon
A horde of great nations from the land of the north,
And they will draw up their battle lines against her;
From there she will be taken captive.
Their arrows will be like an expert warrior
Who does not return empty-handed.

      10“Chaldea will become plunder;
All who plunder her will have enough,” declares the LORD.

      11“Because you are glad, because you are jubilant,
O you who pillage My heritage,
Because you skip about like a threshing heifer
And neigh like stallions,

      12Your mother will be greatly ashamed,
She who gave you birth will be humiliated.
Behold, she will be the least of the nations,
A wilderness, a parched land and a desert.

      13“Because of the indignation of the LORD she will not be inhabited,
But she will be completely desolate;
Everyone who passes by Babylon will be horrified
And will hiss because of all her wounds.

      14“Draw up your battle lines against Babylon on every side,
All you who bend the bow;
Shoot at her, do not be sparing with your arrows,
For she has sinned against the LORD.

      15“Raise your battle cry against her on every side!
She has given herself up, her pillars have fallen,
Her walls have been torn down.
For this is the vengeance of the LORD:
Take vengeance on her;
As she has done to others, so do to her.

      16“Cut off the sower from Babylon
And the one who wields the sickle at the time of harvest;
From before the sword of the oppressor
They will each turn back to his own people
And they will each flee to his own land.

      17“Israel is a scattered flock, the lions have driven them away. The first one who devoured him was the king of Assyria, and this last one who has broken his bones is Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. 18“Therefore thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: ‘Behold, I am going to punish the king of Babylon and his land, just as I punished the king of Assyria. 19‘And I will bring Israel back to his pasture and he will graze on Carmel and Bashan, and his desire will be satisfied in the hill country of Ephraim and Gilead. 20‘In those days and at that time,’ declares the LORD, ‘search will be made for the iniquity of Israel, but there will be none; and for the sins of Judah, but they will not be found; for I will pardon those whom I leave as a remnant.’

      21“Against the land of Merathaim, go up against it,
And against the inhabitants of Pekod.
Slay and utterly destroy them,” declares the LORD,
“And do according to all that I have commanded you.

      22“The noise of battle is in the land,
And great destruction.

      23“How the hammer of the whole earth
Has been cut off and broken!
How Babylon has become
An object of horror among the nations!

      24“I set a snare for you and you were also caught, O Babylon,
While you yourself were not aware;
You have been found and also seized
Because you have engaged in conflict with the LORD.”

      25The LORD has opened His armory
And has brought forth the weapons of His indignation,
For it is a work of the Lord GOD of hosts
In the land of the Chaldeans.

      26Come to her from the farthest border;
Open up her barns,
Pile her up like heaps
And utterly destroy her,
Let nothing be left to her.

      27Put all her young bulls to the sword;
Let them go down to the slaughter!
Woe be upon them, for their day has come,
The time of their punishment.

      28There is a sound of fugitives and refugees from the land of Babylon,
To declare in Zion the vengeance of the LORD our God,
Vengeance for His temple.

      29“Summon many against Babylon,
All those who bend the bow:
Encamp against her on every side,
Let there be no escape.
Repay her according to her work;
According to all that she has done, so do to her;
For she has become arrogant against the LORD,
Against the Holy One of Israel.

      30“Therefore her young men will fall in her streets,
And all her men of war will be silenced in that day,” declares the LORD.

      31“Behold, I am against you, O arrogant one,”
Declares the Lord GOD of hosts,
“For your day has come,
The time when I will punish you.

      32“The arrogant one will stumble and fall
With no one to raise him up;
And I will set fire to his cities
And it will devour all his environs.”

      33Thus says the LORD of hosts,
“The sons of Israel are oppressed,
And the sons of Judah as well;
And all who took them captive have held them fast,
They have refused to let them go.

      34“Their Redeemer is strong, the LORD of hosts is His name;
He will vigorously plead their case
So that He may bring rest to the earth,
But turmoil to the inhabitants of Babylon.

      35“A sword against the Chaldeans,” declares the LORD,
“And against the inhabitants of Babylon
And against her officials and her wise men!

      36“A sword against the oracle priests, and they will become fools!
A sword against her mighty men, and they will be shattered!

      37“A sword against their horses and against their chariots
And against all the foreigners who are in the midst of her,
And they will become women!
A sword against her treasures, and they will be plundered!

      38“A drought on her waters, and they will be dried up!
For it is a land of idols,
And they are mad over fearsome idols.

      39“Therefore the desert creatures will live there along with the jackals;
The ostriches also will live in it,
And it will never again be inhabited
Or dwelt in from generation to generation.

      40“As when God overthrew Sodom
And Gomorrah with its neighbors,” declares the LORD,
“No man will live there,
Nor will any son of man reside in it.

      41“Behold, a people is coming from the north,
And a great nation and many kings
Will be aroused from the remote parts of the earth.

      42“They seize their bow and javelin;
They are cruel and have no mercy.
Their voice roars like the sea;
And they ride on horses,
Marshalled like a man for the battle
Against you, O daughter of Babylon.

      43“The king of Babylon has heard the report about them,
And his hands hang limp;
Distress has gripped him,
Agony like a woman in childbirth.

      44“Behold, one will come up like a lion from the thicket of the Jordan to a perennially watered pasture; for in an instant I will make them run away from it, and whoever is chosen I will appoint over it. For who is like Me, and who will summon Me into court? And who then is the shepherd who can stand before Me?” 45Therefore hear the plan of the LORD which He has planned against Babylon, and His purposes which He has purposed against the land of the Chaldeans: surely they will drag them off, even the little ones of the flock; surely He will make their pasture desolate because of them. 46At the shout, “Babylon has been seized!” the earth is shaken, and an outcry is heard among the nations.

Take some time to humble yourself and pray. Ask God to show you areas in your life where you are not fully submitted to Him and you need to change… then ask for the courage to pursue that change!

If we as individuals and as a nation live in a way that is against God’s call for us, we will be subject to correction from Him.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Consequences of Sin, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Warning for Nations Who Stand Against God

Jeremiah 47 is part of a series of prophecies against various nations, and it serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His role in judging nations and individuals based on their actions.

This chapter contains a prophecy from the prophet Jeremiah concerning the judgment and destruction of the Philistine city of Gaza. The chapter is relatively short and can be summarized as follows:

  1. The chapter begins with the word of the Lord coming to Jeremiah to prophesy against the Philistines, particularly the city of Gaza.
  2. Jeremiah delivers a message of impending destruction and calamity for Gaza. The prophecy describes the noise of chariots, the tumult of battle, and the destruction that will come upon the city and its inhabitants.
  3. The destruction of Gaza is seen as a result of God’s judgment against the Philistines for their oppression of the Israelites and other wickedness. The chapter does not provide specific details about the reasons for this judgment.
  4. The chapter ends with a call for the people of Gaza to shave their heads in mourning and to be ashamed of their city’s impending fate.

We should remember that God does judge nations based on their actions. His response may not be immediate, but blessing or cursing may follow depending the inhabitants of a nation.

Each of us should strive to live righteously and help influence others to do likewise, that our nation would thrive under God and not rebel against Him.

Jeremiah 47

Prophecy against Philistia

      1That which came as the word of the LORD to Jeremiah the prophet concerning the Philistines, before Pharaoh conquered Gaza.

2Thus says the LORD:
“Behold, waters are going to rise from the north
And become an overflowing torrent,
And overflow the land and all its fullness,
The city and those who live in it;
And the men will cry out,
And every inhabitant of the land will wail.

      3“Because of the noise of the galloping hoofs of his stallions,
The tumult of his chariots, and the rumbling of his wheels,
The fathers have not turned back for their children,
Because of the limpness of their hands,

      4On account of the day that is coming
To destroy all the Philistines,
To cut off from Tyre and Sidon
Every ally that is left;
For the LORD is going to destroy the Philistines,
The remnant of the coastland of Caphtor.

      5“Baldness has come upon Gaza;
Ashkelon has been ruined.
O remnant of their valley,
How long will you gash yourself?

      6“Ah, sword of the LORD,
How long will you not be quiet?
Withdraw into your sheath;
Be at rest and stay still.

      7“How can it be quiet,
When the LORD has given it an order?
Against Ashkelon and against the seacoast—
There He has assigned it.”

When God releases judgment, there is no nation strong enough to stand against Him. Similarly, when God blesses a nation, they will truly thrive beyond their own means.

Prayerfully reflect on your life and your nation. Are you and is your nation set apart and holy for the LORD? Ask God to show you what changes to make in your life to impact your decisions and also impact others.

Give thanks for His blessings and for His patience.

Shalom. Devotion by John in service to Christ

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Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.