Finding Refreshment and Satisfaction -Jeremiah 31:24-25

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Jeremiah 31:24-25 (NIV)

“People will live together in Judah and all its towns—farmers and those who move about with their flocks. I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.”

Jeremiah 31:24-25 (MSG)

“All Judah’s people, whether in town or country, will get along just fine with each other. I’ll refresh tired bodies; I’ll restore tired souls.”

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“And [the people of] Judah and all its cities will live there together—the farmer and they who wander about with flocks. For I [fully] satisfy the weary soul, and I replenish every languishing and sorrowful person.” -AMPLIFIED

“In that day the Jewish people would not only be blessed spiritually, but also materially. They will be restored in both the city and the country. God promised abundance and satisfaction to the empty, tired soul. The soul filled with sorrow would be filled with hope and peace.” ~David Guzik

The Lord has been sharing with Israel how things will one day be different, once they repent and turn back to Him wholly. When they do, God promises to bring them home. God’s Message to Israel:

“This is what the Lord of Armies, the God of Israel, says: “When I restore their fortunes, they will once again speak this word in the land of Judah and in its cities: ‘May the Lord bless you, righteous settlement, holy mountain.’” -Jeremiah 31:23 (CSB)

As we look to today’s passage, we find the Lord reminding Israel that He is the only One who can truly satisfy and refresh the weary soul. God’s Message:

“In those days of restoration, farmers and herders all across Judah will live together in peace alongside those who live in the cities. I will satisfy those who are weary, and I will refresh every soul in the grips of sorrow.” -(VOICE)

Israel had spent too many years chasing after temporary pleasures, trying to find satisfaction in all the wrong places. They had turned to other gods, idols, which was a sin, practicing rites that were contrary to the ways of the Lord, which led them further into sin. All because they were looking for satisfaction in all the wrong places.

We find the Lord telling them that in the day of restoration, everyone will live in peace and happiness. How can that be? Because the Lord would be the One who would give them rest and refreshment for their weary souls, and He would satisfy them too.

One day, the people of Israel will finally realize that only the Lord can satisfy and refresh them. This is because He is “I AM”, the All-Sufficient One. He is the only One who can meet their every need. He is the only One who is always with them all the time. He is the only One who can truly refresh them and satisfy their weary souls.

“God identified Himself using the name I AM WHO I AM, also shortened to I AM. The Hebrew translation for this name is Yahweh (pronounced YA WAY). Later, this name was transliterated into a Latin version of the name: “Jehovah,” which means “the self-existent one.” By calling Himself I AM, God revealed that He had no beginning and will have no end.” ~Marybeth McCullum

“And city dwellers and farmers and shepherds alike shall live together in peace and happiness. For I have given rest to the weary and joy to all the sorrowing.” -(TLB)

“Judah would experience great unity at that time because the Lord would satisfy the previously weary residents and refresh those who formerly languished.” ~Thomas Constable

God’s Word states clearly that true, lasting refreshing and satisfaction will only come from Adonai-Tzva’ot, the God of Israel. Let’s take a look, pay close attention to the highlighted areas.

Frist, finding refreshment from the Lord:

• “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your body and refreshment to your bones.” -Proverbs 3:6-8 (NASB)

• “Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.” -Isaiah 40:31 (NASB)

• “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” -Matthew 5:6 (NIV)

• “Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord…” -Acts 3:19 (NASB)

• “And now to him who can keep you on your feet, standing tall in his bright presence, fresh and celebrating—to our one God, our only Savior, through Jesus Christ, our Master, be glory, majesty, strength, and rule before all time, and now, and to the end of all time. Yes.” -Jude 1:24-25 (MSG)

Second, finding satisfaction in the Lord:

• “You will make known to me the way of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” -Psalm 16:11 (NASB)

• “ For He has satisfied the thirsty soul, And He has filled the hungry soul with what is good.” -Psalm 107:9 (NASB)

• “And the Lord will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.” -Isaiah 58:11 (NASB)

• “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.” -Matthew 6:33 (NASB)

• “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you,”” -Hebrews 13:5 (NASB)

Let us remember what Jesus said to the Woman at the Well, this relevant to Everyman:

“Drink this water, and your thirst is quenched only for a moment. You must return to this well again and again. I offer water that will become a wellspring within you that gives life throughout eternity. You will never be thirsty again.” -John 4:13-14 (VOICE)

“In God’s word, those satisfied with God spend a lifetime seeking satisfaction in God. Those filled with God search for fullness in God. Those who have found God never stop searching after God. An unrelenting pursuit of God defines believers. That is why they keep reading the same Scriptures again and again — to find more of God. They pray for more of God. They memorize passages for more of God. Our longing is not to re-experience the joy we had when we first beheld him, but to experience new joy through a greater knowledge of him.” ~Dieudonné Tamfu

My friend, weary soul, have you been looking for refreshment and satisfaction in other places? If so, you need to realize that true refreshment, restoration, healing, and satisfaction can only be found in the Lord. Everything else is just fleeting and will never bring you contentment or fulfillment. Only God can fill that empty spot in your life. Run to Him today and allow Him to refresh and satisfy you.

“The man who has God for his treasure has all things in One. Many ordinary treasures may be denied him, or if he is allowed to have them, the enjoyment of them will be so tempered that they will never be necessary to his happiness. Or if he must see them go, one after one, he will scarcely feel a sense of loss, for having the Source of all things he has in One all satisfaction, all pleasure, all delight. Whatever he may lose he has actually lost nothing, for he now has it all in One, and he has it purely, legitimately, and forever.” ~A. W. Tozer

My Prayer:

Adonai Elohim, my Great Lord, forgive me for those times that I have looked for satisfaction in other places. I know I have turned to other things and people to make me happy, to bring me gratification and fulfillment, but only you can fill that empty spot in my life. You created everyone that way, so that we would realize our deep need for you. Lord, I get it, I understand now that only you can satisfy my longings. Help me to hunger and thirst for more of you. Help me to learn to be content in you and help me to walk in your ways. Times of refreshing can only be found in your presence, so please Lord, meet me now as I sit at your feet. Thank you. ❤

The Joy of Walking in Obedience -Jeremiah 31:13

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Jeremiah 31:13 (NIV)

“Then young women will dance and be glad, young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.”

Jeremiah 31:13 (MSG)

“Young women will dance and be happy, young men and old men will join in. I’ll convert their weeping into laughter, lavishing comfort, invading their grief with joy.”

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“Then the virgin will rejoice in the dance, and the young men and old, together, for I will turn their mourning into joy and will comfort them and make them rejoice after their sorrow.” -AMPLIFIED

“I will turn their mourning to joy: Israel mourned under their exile and captivity, but God promised to turn it to joy. With God’s comfort, all would rejoice together.” ~David Guzik

In yesterday’s text, we found the Lord likening Israel, when they returned to Zion, to a well-watered garden:

“They will come and shout for joy on the heights of Zion; they will be radiant with joy because of the Lord’s goodness, because of the grain, the new wine, the fresh oil, and because of the young of the flocks and herds. Their life will be like an irrigated garden, and they will no longer grow weak from hunger.” -Jeremiah 31:12 (CSB)

Notice how they will return home, with joy, radiant faces, and why? Because of the Lord’s goodness.

As we look to today’s passage, we will notice that that theme of joy and gladness continues. God’s Message to Israel:

Eternal One: “Young women will dance for joy; young men will join them, old ones too. For I will turn their mourning into joy. I will comfort My people and replace their sorrow with gladness.” -(VOICE)

In that day, the latter days, remember, in the final verse of Jeremiah 30, verse 24, we are told these things would happen in the latter days: “The fierce anger of the Lord will not turn back Until He has performed and accomplished The intent of His heart. In the latter days you will understand this.” -Jeremiah 30:24 (NASB)

In that day and time, the young girls will dance for joy, and the young men, as well as the old men will joy them. That time will be a time of joyful celebration.

The Lord declares that He will turn the people’s mourning into joy. He will personally comfort them, turning their sorrow into gladness. (Was there any other “god” who took such tender-loving care of their people? NO! Only Adonai, the One True God, does so.)

Isaiah supports this, telling us in his book of prophecy:

“It’ll be like that for those the Eternal One ransomed from captivity to return to Zion, Jerusalem. And they’ll come singing with joy. Overwhelming, never-ending joy will crown their heads with happiness and delight while desperation and depression melt away.” -Isaiah 51:11 (VOICE)

Make note, this is what happens when people choose to do things God’s way, when they choose to walk in obedience to their Lord.

They find true happiness: “Happy are the people who live pure lives. They follow the Lord’s teachings. Happy are the people who keep his rules. They ask him for help with their whole heart. They don’t do what is wrong. They follow his ways.” -Psalm 119:1-3 (ICB)

They find joy unspeakable and full of glory: “Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not even see Him now, you believe and trust in Him and you greatly rejoice and delight with inexpressible and glorious joy, receiving as the result [the outcome, the consummation] of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” -1 Peter 1:8-9 (VOICE).

They will no longer feel shame: “Instead of your [former] shame you will have a double portion; and instead of humiliation your people will shout for joy over their portion. Therefore in their land they will possess double [what they had forfeited]; everlasting joy will be theirs.” -Isaiah 61:7 (AMP)

They find peace, real peace: “And know that the peace of God (a peace that is beyond any and all of our human understanding) will stand watch over your hearts and minds in Jesus, the Anointed One.” -Philippians 4:7 (VOICE)

They will experience the blessings of the Lord: “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God…” -Deuteronomy 28:1-2 (NIV)

Consider something that David wrote about God removing our shame and our sorrow, and how we will react to His goodness to us:

“You did it: You turned my deepest pains into joyful dancing; You stripped off my dark clothing
    and covered me with joyful light. You have restored my honor. My heart is ready to explode, erupt in new songs! It’s impossible to keep quiet! Eternal One, my God, my Life-Giver, I will thank You forever.” -Psalm 30:11-12 (VOICE)

“The young girls will dance for joy, and menfolk—old and young—will take their part in all the fun; for I will turn their mourning into joy, and I will comfort them and make them rejoice, for their captivity with all its sorrows will be behind them.” -(TLB)

“All ages of people would celebrate because the Lord would change their mourning and sorrow into comfort and rejoicing. The priests would enjoy great abundance of blessing, and all the people would find satisfaction in the Lord for His goodness.” ~Thomas Constable

Walking in obedience to the Lord will bring us joy as well. Scripture tells us so:

• “Following your covenant laws gives me joy just as great riches give joy to others.” -Psalm 119:14 (NIRV)
• “And this is love: that we walk in accordance with His commandments and are guided continually by His precepts. This is the commandment, just as you have heard from the beginning, that you should [always] walk in love.” -2 John 1:6 (AMP)
• “Obey the Word of God. If you hear only and do not act, you are only fooling yourself.” -James 1:22 (NLV)

“The benefits of obedience far outweigh the cost of walking in disobedience. When you walk in obedience, joy will fill your life.” ~Billy Taylor

My friend, the long-term benefits of obedience to the Lord far outweigh the short-term perk of temporarily getting what we want, when we want it, otherwise known as disobedience to the Lord. Has your life been joyless? Have you been unhappy, experiencing guilt, and/or shame? Has the peace of the Lord been missing in your life? Do you feel like you are missing out on the blessings of the Lord? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, it is time to go to the Father and seek His face. Allow Him to show you what you need to repent of and change in your life. He wants you to experience all the benefits of walking in obedience to Him.

“Anyone who wants to know God—to walk closely with Him—must obey Him. Sounds like a strong statement, doesn’t it? But there is no way that we can come into a close relationship with the Lord, walk fully in THE BLESSING and enjoy the communion that our spirits desire without obeying Him.” ~Kenneth Copeland

My Prayer:

Adonai Elohim, my Great Lord, I want to experience all the benefits of walking in obedience to you. I know what it is like to walk in disobedience, the lack of joy, happiness, and blessing that comes with that, as well as the shame. I do not like how I feel when I have been disobedient. But the joy, and happiness, the peace and the blessings that come with obedience, they are amazing. So, Lord, I ask that you help me to walk faithfully in obedience to you. Help me to follow your commands. Help me to be quick to obey, listening to your still, small Voice. Walking with you fills me with peace, joy, happiness, and contentment. And that is what I want, that is what I need. So, Lord, I choose to walk with you.

The Wrath of God – Jeremiah 30:23

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Jeremiah 30:23 (NIV)

“See, the storm of the Lord will burst out in wrath, a driving wind swirling down on the heads of the wicked.”

Jeremiah 30:23 (MSG)

“Look out! God’s hurricane is let loose, his hurricane blast, spinning the heads of the wicked like dust devils!”

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“Behold, the tempest of the Lord! Wrath has gone forth, a sweeping and gathering tempest; it will burst on the head of the wicked.” -AMPLIFIED

“The whirlwind of the Lord goeth forth with fury; the vengeance of God compared to a whirlwind, for the suddenness of it, and because it should encompass them to their ruin, a terrible whirlwind. A continuing whirlwind; or, a continuing whirling; not a sudden blast of wind, that shall presently go over, but a vengeance that shall abide. The miserable effects of which, in destroying, shall be either upon the heathen, or upon the wicked Jews that shall continue in their disobedience and stubbornness.” ~Matthew Poole

As we looked at yesterday’s passage, we were reminded that Adonai the God of Israel is a covenant keeping God. The agreement that He made with Israel at the foot of Mount Saini will continue till the end of time. God’s Message to the people through Jeremiah:

“You will be my people, and I will be your God.” -Jeremiah 30:22 (CSB)

Throughout this chapter, the Lord has touched on Judah’s restoration, her healing, and her homecoming. But as the chapter closes, we find Shofet Tsaddiq, Hebrew for the Righteous Judge, mentioning once again the whirlwind of God’s wrath:

“Behold, the storm of the Eternal’s wrath will now break open, swirling down out of the sky like a whirlwind onto the heads of the wicked.” -(VOICE)

This image of God’s wrath echo’s what was written back in Jeremiah 23:19-20. There we read:

“Behold, the storm of the Eternal’s wrath will now break open, swirling down out of the sky like a whirlwind onto the heads of the wicked. The Eternal’s anger will not relent until He has carried out His most fervent plans. You will understand all of this in the days to come.” -(VOICE)

We are once again reminded of this graphic picture of God’s judgement against the wicked here in chapter 30. Why?

 “Before there can be blessing, judgment must be meted out to the guilty.” ~John Feinberg

God’s wrath is strikingly described in this way in the various translations:

• “Behold, the whirlwind of the Lord goeth forth with fury…” -(BRG)
• “Behold the whirlwind of the Lord, his fury going forth, a violent storm…” -(DRA)
• “Behold, the tempest of the Lord! Wrath has gone forth, A sweeping tempest…” -(NASB)
• “Look! A storm of Adonai! Fury has burst out as a churning storm, whirling about the head of the wicked.” -(TLV)

If you have ever lived through a violent storm of any kind you will grasp the force and power of God’s wrath. When it comes to pass, it will be intense and severe.

The Lord tells us in the final verse of this chapter that one day the people of Judah will clearly understand why this must happen.

“Suddenly the devastating whirlwind of the Lord roars with fury; it shall burst upon the heads of the wicked.” -(TLB)

“The wrath of God against the wicked is very terrible, like a whirlwind. The purposes of his wrath, as well as the purposes of his love, will all be fulfilled. God will comfort all that turn to him; but those who approach him must have their hearts engaged to do it with reverence, devotion, and faith. How will they escape who neglect so great salvation?” ~Matthew Henry

Scripture tells us that the Lord’s wrath is always directed towards sin and the wicked, never towards right living or the righteous. Paul shared this truth with the church in Rome:

“For the wrath of God is breaking through from heaven, opposing all manifestations of ungodliness and wickedness by the people who do wrong to keep God’s truth in check.” -Romans 1:18 (VOICE)

The wrath of the Lord is serious. Nahum reminds us that the objective of God’s wrath is for justice. And Nahum then describes for us the force and power in God’s wrath:

“The Eternal One won’t tolerate anything that distracts from Him and will avenge and settle the score on behalf of His covenant people. The Eternal will serve up justice when His anger finally overflows. He brings justice to those who oppose Him and sustains His fury toward those who work against Him. The Eternal’s anger builds slowly, but His power is great. He will not allow the guilty to go free. His way is in fierce winds and storms; the clouds are dust beneath His feet. He chastises the oceans, and they all dry up; He makes the rushing rivers run dry too. The lush lands of Bashan and Carmel wither, and the beautiful flowers of Lebanon shrivel. In response to Him, mountains quake and mudslides flow down melting hillsides. The planet and all who live on it are overwhelmed in His presence. Who can stand up when His fury finally overflows? Who can hold up under the heat of His anger? His fury flows out like fire, strong enough to shatter even the rocks.” -Nahum 1:2-6 (VOICE)

We need to understand that there is purpose behind God’s wrath. He is not just angry for the sake of being angry, His anger has a purpose and an aim. We learn more about this from a passage in Ezekiel:

“This is what the Eternal Lord has to say about Philistia: Eternal One: Because the Philistines had an old grudge against Judah and acted out of revenge and total malevolence to try to destroy My people, therefore I, the Eternal Lord, promise this: I will raise My hand and strike the Philistines, cut off the Cherethites, and slaughter anyone left along the coast. I will bring My fierce vengeance against them, rebuking them and punishing them in My wrath! When I bring My vengeance against them, they will know that I am the Eternal One.” -Ezekiel 25:15-17 (VOICE)

Paul gives warning to those who make excuses for living sinful lives, reminding them that God’s wrath will come against them for their blatant sin:

” So you can see there are no excuses for any of us. If your eyes shift their focus from yourselves to others—to judge how they are doing—you have already condemned yourselves! You don’t realize that you are pointing your fingers at others for the exact things you do as well. There’s no doubt that the judgment of God will justly fall upon hypocrites who practice such things. Here’s what is happening: you attack and criticize others and then turn around to commit the same offenses yourselves! Do you think you will somehow dodge God’s judgment? Do you take the kindness of God for granted? Do you see His patience and tolerance as signs that He is a pushover when it comes to sin? How could you not know that His kindness is guiding our hearts to turn away from distractions and habitual sin to walk a new path? But because your heart is obstinate and shameless, you’re storing up wrath that will count against you. On the day of His choosing, God’s wrath and judgment will be unleashed to make things right. As it goes, everyone will receive what his actions in life have cultivated. Whoever has labored diligently and patiently to do what is right—seeking glory, honor, and immortality—God will grant him endless joy in life eternal. But selfish individuals who make trouble, resist the truth, or sell out to wickedness will meet a very different fate—they will find fury and indignation as the fruit of living in the wrong.” -Romans 2:1-8 (VOICE)

“The most violent expression of God’s wrath and justice is seen in the Cross. If ever a person had room to complain for injustice, it was Jesus. He was the only innocent man ever to be punished by God. If we stagger at the wrath of God, let us stagger at the Cross. Here is where our astonishment should be focused.” ~R. C. Sproul

Remember this, God is a righteous and just Judge. His wrath is only directed towards sin.

“God is a just judge; He passes judgment daily against the person who does evil.” -Psalm 7:11 (VOICE)

So, let us choose daily to live a life that is holy and acceptable to the Lord.

“Brothers and sisters, in light of all I have shared with you about God’s mercies, I urge you to offer your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice to God, a sacred offering that brings Him pleasure; this is your reasonable, essential worship. Do not allow this world to mold you in its own image. Instead, be transformed from the inside out by renewing your mind. As a result, you will be able to discern what God wills and whatever God finds good, pleasing, and complete.” -Romans 12:1-2 (VOICE)

“If there be a man before me who says that the wrath of God is too heavy a punishment for his little sin, I ask him, if the sin be little, why does he not give it up?” ~Charles Spurgeon

My friend, the wrath of the Lord is a real thing, and it is serious. Let us be careful that we are living lives that are holy and acceptable to Him. If we are, then we do not need to fear His wrath. Let us trust in the Lord and do good. If we choose to do so, one day we will be duly rewarded for our faithfulness to Him.

“Your greatest need is to be delivered from the wrath of God – and that has already been accomplished for you through the death and resurrection of Christ. So why doubt that God will provide a much, much lesser need? Trust His sovereignty, trust His wisdom, trust His love.” ~C. J. Mahaney

My Prayer:

Adonai Elohim, my Great Lord, please lead me in your ways. Help me to walk along your paths of righteousness. I do not want to be on the receiving end of your anger. I know one day each person will be rewarded for the way they choose to live their life. To those who have lived a life of sin, you will say, “Depart from me, I never knew you.” But to those who have lived a life of righteousness, doing things your way, you will say, “Enter in, my good and faithful servant.” Lord, help me to always keep righteous living as my goal. Help me to remember that this life and its pleasures are only temporary, but your reward for right living will be eternal. Help me to focus on the eternal, not the temporary. Thank you, Lord.

God Cares About Us – Jeremiah 30:4

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Jeremiah 30:4 (NIV)

“These are the words the Lord spoke concerning Israel and Judah…”

Jeremiah 30:4 (MSG)

“This is the way God put it to Israel and Judah…”

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“Now these are the words the Lord spoke concerning Israel and Judah..” -AMPLIFIED

“The suffering of God’s people will almost be more than they can bear, but God assures them that it will not last indefinitely.” ~Donald Flemming

As we looked at yesterday’s text, we found the Lord giving hope to the captives. He would restore to them not only their fortunes but restore them to their homeland. God’s Message:

“…for look, the days are coming”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“when I will restore the fortunes of my people Israel and Judah,” says the Lord. “I will restore them to the land I gave to their ancestors and they will possess it.” -Jeremiah 30:3 (CSB)

As we look at today’s short passage, I am reminded that God cares about us and for us. Over the coming days we will come to a greater realization of this Truth.

“So says the Eternal in a message about Israel and Judah.” -(VOICE)

Our text may not be long, but we can learn some relevant facts from it.

1.) This was a Message from the Lord to the people.

“And which God ordered to be written: and those promises, which were written by his order, are as truly his word as the ten commandments, which were written with his finger.” ~Benson Commentary

2.) We find the Lord directing this Message to both Israel and Judah.

 “The mention of both kingdoms is another hint that this written prophecy speaks of something later and greater than the return from Babylonian exile.” ~David Guzik

3.) God cares about the people. This may be implied, but we need to grasp this truth. For if He did not care, why would He warn them, why would He have given to them the Words of hope and mercy that follow?

“All the words – i. e., the scroll was to be a summary of whatever of hope and mercy had been contained in previous predictions.” ~Albert Barnes Commentary

Over the coming days we will learn more about the depth of God’s loving care for His people.

“And write this also concerning Israel and Judah…” -(TLB)

“His is a loving, tender hand, full of sympathy and compassion.”- D.L. Moody

My friend, God loves us deeply. He cares for us boundlessly and His tender care is focused on each of us.

“The only love that won’t disappoint you is one that can’t change, that can’t be lost, that is not based on the ups and downs of life or of how well you live. It is something that not even death can take away from you. God’s love is the only thing like that.” ~Tim Keller

Scripture reminds us just how much God truly cares for us:

God is patient with us, compassionate and merciful:

“The Eternal is compassionate and merciful. When we cross all the lines, He is patient with us. When we struggle against Him, He lovingly stays with us—changing, convicting, prodding…” -Psalm 103:8 (VOICE)

God holds us in His strong right hand, whispering words of encouragement to us:

“After all, it is I, the Eternal One your God, who has hold of your right hand, who whispers in your ear, “Don’t be afraid. I will help you.” -Isaiah 41:13 (VOICE)

God walks with us when we are faced with storms or fires:

“When you face stormy seas I will be there with you with endurance and calm; you will not be engulfed in raging rivers. If it seems like you’re walking through fire with flames licking at your limbs, keep going; you won’t be burned.” -Isaiah 43:2 (VOICE)

When we are walking through those fires and storms, may we remember this truth, nothing can separate us from God’s love:

“But no matter what comes, we will always taste victory through Him who loved us. For I have every confidence that nothing—not death, life, heavenly messengers, dark spirits, the present, the future, spiritual powers, height, depth, nor any created thing—can come between us and the love of God revealed in the Anointed, Jesus our Lord.” -Romans 8:37-39 (VOICE)

God is standing right over us, championing us, celebrating over us, and singing over us:

“The Eternal your God is standing right here among you, and He is the champion who will rescue you.
He will joyfully celebrate over you; He will rest in His love for you; He will joyfully sing because of you like a new husband.” -Zephaniah 3:17 (VOICE)

“God is completely sovereign. God is infinite in wisdom. God is perfect in love. God in His love always wills what is best for us. In His wisdom He always knows what is best, and in His sovereignty, He has the power to bring it about.” ~Jerry Bridges

My friend, God cares for each of us deeply. He wants what is best for us. He has good plans in store for each of our lives. Those plans were made even before we were formed in our mother’s womb, and the Lord is working all things out for good. Will you trust His plans? Remember, He has your best interest at heart and He cares deeply for you.

“No matter what storm you face, you need to know that God loves you. He has not abandoned you.” ~Franklin Graham

My Prayer:

Adonai Elohim, my Great Lord, I am so grateful for your loving care. I am thankful that you are Emmanuel, God with me. You walk with me through the storms and the fires. You have promised that nothing can separate me from you or your love. You provide for my every need. In fact, your Word says that you know the very number of hairs on my head. If you take the time to know that mundane detail about me, you truly must love and care about me. Lord, I am so blessed to have you on my side, fighting for me, providing for me, caring for me. May I never take you for granted. You are amazing and I am so blessed to be your child. Thank you, Lord, for caring.

Do Not Provoke the Lord Your God -Jeremiah 25:6

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Jeremiah 25:6 (NIV)

“Do not follow other gods to serve and worship them; do not arouse my anger with what your hands have made. Then I will not harm you.”

Jeremiah 25:6 (MSG)

“Don’t follow the god-fads of the day, taking up and worshiping these no-gods. Don’t make me angry with your god-businesses, making and selling gods—a dangerous business!”

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“…and do not go after other gods to serve them and to worship them, and do not provoke Me to anger with the work of your hands, and I will do you no harm.’” -AMPLIFIED

“The Prophet mentions here one kind of sin; for though the Jews in many, and even in numberless ways kindled God’s wrath, yet they especially procured a heavy judgment for themselves by their superstitions. They indeed manifested their contempt of God by adultery, theft, and plunder, but in a way not so direct; for when they abandoned themselves to the superstitions of the Gentiles, they thus shook off the yoke of God, as though they openly testified that he was no longer their God. And we know that nothing is so much valued and approved by God as a sincere attention to real piety; hence the Church is taught in the first table of the Law how he is to be worshipped. This is the reason why the Prophet especially reminds the Jews here that they had, in this respect, been rebellious against God, because he could not bring them back from their corrupt superstitions. He does not at the same time absolve them of other sins; but he mentions this one kind, in order that they might understand, that they were not only in part, but altogether rebellious against God; for they wholly departed from him when they vitiated his worship with wicked superstitions. We must then bear in mind, that the Jews were not condemned for some small offenses, but accused of the most heinous of sins; for they had become covenant-breakers and apostates, and had forsaken God himself and his law.” ~John Calvin

Jeremiah has been speaking to the people, reminding them of how he has faithfully given to them the Word of the Lord. He also reminded them that many prophets of the Lord have also been doing the same. In yesterday’s text we found him encouraging them to turn from their sinful lives, and to repent, so that they could live long in the land that the Lord had given to them.

“He announced, ‘Turn, each of you, from your evil way of life and from your evil deeds. Live in the land the Lord gave to you and your ancestors long ago and forever.” -Jeremiah 25:5 (CSB)

As Jeremiah continues his discourse, he warns the people of the danger of angering or provoking the Lord God, especially with their idols. Jeremiah gives to them a Message that was not new, but bore repeating, a Message from the Lord:

“I will not harm you if you do not chase after other gods to serve and worship them or provoke Me to anger with the little idols your hands have made.” -(VOICE)

Jeremiah reiterates, or repeats, something that God has said to the people time and time again:

“Don’t follow other gods by serving and worshipping them. “Don’t provoke my anger with things your own hands have made; then I will do you no harm.” -(Complete Jewish Bible)

DO NOT FOLLOW AFTER OTHER gods…DO NOT provoke the Lord to anger.

From the very beginning of their walk together, when God made a covenant with Israel, they were made aware that they were to serve the Lord God, Jehovah, only. There were to be no other gods. Take note:

Eternal One: “I am the Eternal your God. I led you out of Egypt and liberated you from lives of slavery and oppression. You are not to serve any other gods before Me. You are not to make any idol or image of other gods. In fact, you are not to make an image of anything in the heavens above, on the earth below, or in the waters beneath. You are not to bow down and serve any image, for I, the Eternal your God, am a jealous God. As for those who are not loyal to Me, their children will endure the consequences of their sins for three or four generations. But for those who love Me and keep My directives, their children will experience My loyal love for a thousand generations.” -Exodus 20:2-6 (VOICE)

When that command was given, God was serious. This was not a game, their way of life depended on their obedience. Joshua warned the people that God was a jealous God, and He would NOT tolerate their sin. Consider Joshua’s warning:

Joshua (warning them): “If you think you will be able to serve the Eternal, you are wrong. He is a holy God and a jealous God; He will not tolerate your shortcomings and your sins. If you desert Him and worship these foreign gods, He will fall upon you and totally consume you, even though He has done all this great good for you.” -Joshua 24:19-20 (VOICE)

“Don’t anger me by worshiping idols; but if you are true to me, then I’ll not harm you.” -(TLB)

“So long as they served the Lord God, they continued in their own land, in the comfortable enjoyment of all the blessings of it; for their government was a theocracy; God was their King; and as long as they served and worshipped him only, he protected and defended them; but when they forsook him, and went after other gods, and served and worshipped them, then they were threatened to be turned out of their land, and carried captive into other lands; and yet, after all, if they returned from their idolatries, and left off worshipping idols, the Lord was ready to receive them kindly, and continue his favours to them: and provoke me not to anger with the works of your hands; their idols, which their own hands made, and then fell down to worship them; than which nothing can be more provoking to God: and I will do you no hurt; by sword, or famine, or pestilence, or captivity; signifying the hurt he had threatened them with should not be done, provided they forsook their idolatrous worship; God does no hurt to his true worshippers; yea, he makes all things work together for their good.” ~John Gill

Even today, we need to be careful to walk in obedience, so that we do not provoke the Lord our God. Scripture tells us this.

Isaiah gives us this warning:

“How bad it will be for anyone who disputes with the very One who created him! After all, a human being is nothing more than one clay pot among many. Imagine the clay saying to the potter, “What do you think you’re doing?” or “You don’t have the hands for this.” -Isaiah 45:9 (VOICE)

Isaiah, a few chapters over, also gives us this overview of what happens when we provoke the Lord God:

“There is no truth-telling anymore, and anyone who tries to do right finds he is the next target. It’s true. The Eternal One saw it all and was understandably perturbed at the absence of justice. God looked long and hard, but there wasn’t a single person who tried to put a stop to the injustice and lies.
So God took action. His own strong arm reached out and brought salvation. His own righteousness—good and pure—sustained Him. But God’s equipment was that of no ordinary warrior: He strapped on righteousness as His breastplate, and put on the helmet of salvation. Wrapped in vengeance for clothing and passion as a cloak, God prepared for war. Finally, God determined they must get what they’ve earned: fury to those who oppose Him, vengeance against those who are against Him. To the ends of the known world, God will go to render justice.” -Isaiah 59:15-18 (VOICE)

Paul, writing to the church in Rome has this to say about God’s anger, and why He does get angry:

“For the wrath of God is breaking through from heaven, opposing all manifestations of ungodliness and wickedness by the people who do wrong to keep God’s truth in check.” -Romans 1:18 (VOICE)

Paul also gave the Romans this warning:

“But because your heart is obstinate and shameless, you’re storing up wrath that will count against you. On the day of His choosing, God’s wrath and judgment will be unleashed to make things right.” -Romans 2:5 (VOICE)

The writer of Hebrews gives us this warning that we would do well to keep in mind when we are contemplating sin:

“It is truly a frightening thing to be on the wrong side of the living God.” -Hebrews 10:31 (VOICE)

We would all do well to keep Paul’s instructions to Timothy in mind:

“Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” -2 Timothy 2:22 (NLT)

“God has not changed (Hebrews 13:8). What angered God in Old Testament times, still can provoke God to anger today. He is very patient and loving with us. He gives us many “second, third, etc.” chances to repent and turn from our wicked sin. One day, however, His toleration of sin will cease. The examples of the Bible prove that no one can escape an angry God. Certainly, today sinners will not escape the wrath of a mighty God provoked to anger.” ~Bill Brinkworth

My friend, do not provoke the Lord God. Do not make Him angry. When we insist on doing things our own way, when we choose to rebel against Him, we are opening ourselves up to experience His anger, and He will discipline us, do not think for a moment that He will not. Choose to walk in obedience, then you will have nothing to fear.

“What is sin?
It is the glory of God not honored.
The holiness of God not reverenced.
The greatness of God not admired.
The power of God not praised.
The truth of God not sought.
The wisdom of God not esteemed.
The beauty of God not treasured.
The goodness of God not savored.
The faithfulness of God not trusted.
The commandments of God not obeyed.
The justice of God not respected.
The wrath of God not feared.
The grace of God not cherished.
The presence of God not prized.
The person of God not loved.
That is sin.” ~John Piper

My Prayer:

Adonai Elohim, my Great Lord, I want to walk in obedience to you. I have read of what happens to those who rebel against you, who choose to provoke your anger. Things do not go well for those who stand against you. There are dire consequences to sin, and I have no wish to experience them. Help me to remain faithful and true to you. Help me to submit to your will in my life. I want to walk with you all the days of my life. Please, help me to do my very best for your glory, Lord. Thank you.

There Are Repercussions to Sin -Jeremiah 24:9

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Jeremiah 24:9 (NIV)

 “I will make them abhorrent and an offense to all the kingdoms of the earth, a reproach and a byword, a curse and an object of ridicule, wherever I banish them.”

Jeremiah 24:9 (MSG)

“I’ll make them something that the whole world will look on as disgusting—repugnant outcasts, their names used as curse words wherever in the world I drive them.”

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“I will make them a focus of ridicule and disappointment [tossed back and forth] among all the kingdoms of the earth, a [notorious] disgrace, a byword, a taunt and a curse in all places where I will scatter them.” -AMPLIFIED

“Those who remain in Jerusalem are the ‘bad figs’. They continue in their evil ways and think that by relying on Egypt they will escape the power of the Babylonians. Jeremiah tells them that, far from escaping, they will come to the most humiliating and horrible end.” ~Donald Flemming

God has been speaking to the “bad figs”, and what He has to say to them is not good. There would be no escaping God’s judgement.

“But as for the bad figs, so bad they are inedible, this is what the Lord says: In this way I will deal with King Zedekiah of Judah, his officials, and the remnant of Jerusalem—those remaining in this land or living in the land of Egypt.” -Jeremiah 24:8 (CSB)

As we dive into today’s passage, we are reminded that there are negative consequences to disobedience to God. Our text today is a fulfillment of a prophecy given by Moses of what would happen to those who rebel against the Lord.

“I will make them a horror to the watching world, a disgrace and a lesson for all to learn, an object of scorn and cursing wherever I scatter them.” -(VOICE)

The Lord says to these “bad figs” that He will drive them out of Judah, since they would not leave obediently.

“Everywhere I drive them I will make them an object of horror,…” -(Complete Jewish Bible)

“Jeconiah and the captives with him were only carried into Babylon; but these should be scattered one from another into the several parts of the world. The former were carried captive for their good, and it issued in that; but these were carried away for their hurt, to the injury of their persons and properties, and without having any effect upon them to the good of their souls: though this might begin to be fulfilled by the seventy years’ captivity in Babylon, yet it had a more complete fulfilment in the destruction of this people by the Romans; to which these and the following words seem more particularly to refer: [to be] a reproach and a proverb, a taunt and a curse, in all places whither I shall drive them; their names to be used as a proverb for their riches ill gotten, their falsehood and tricking; and under the curse of God, and the reproach of man…” ~John Gill

If we refer back to Deuteronomy 28, where the blessings and curses are given by Moses for the obedience or disobedience of the people, we will find him giving these predictions of what would happen to those who chose to disobey and rebel against God:

“The Lord will cause you to be defeated by your enemies; you will go out one way against them, but you will flee seven ways from their presence, and you will be an example of terror to all the kingdoms of the earth.” -Deuteronomy 28:25 (NASB)

“And you will become an object of horror, a song of mockery, and an object of taunting among all the peoples where the Lord drives you.” -Deuteronomy 28:37 (NASB)

This is why God now tells them that they will be receiving the repercussion of their sin, and it was not a positive consequence:

“I will make them an object of terror and an evil for all the kingdoms of the earth, as a disgrace and a proverb, a taunt and a curse in all the places where I will scatter them.” -(NASB)

Their sin had found them out. They “thought” they had escaped God’s judgment, that He had looked the other way, and ignored their sin, but they were so wrong. What lay ahead for them, and their offspring, would be much worse than what the exiles, who had gone to Babylon, would have experienced. Remember, obedience to the Lord is always the best choice, always.

“I will make them repulsive to every nation of the earth, and they shall be mocked and taunted and cursed wherever I compel them to go.” -(TLB)

“Virtually all of Judah would be taken captive, but God knew how to appoint the bad figs among them to particular trouble. They would be a reproach and a byword, a taunt and a curse in exile. In a sense, God sent out the people represented by the good figs, but the bad figs He shall drive out.” ~David Guzik

There is the mentality that it is easier to just sin, and then ask forgiveness, cause God is a forgiving God. Yes, He is, but that is not how we should be thinking. That is the wrong attitude, and that attitude God Israel and Judah in a whole lot of trouble. Remember, obedience is better than sacrifice.

Paul gives us this reminder:

“As for you, don’t you remember how you used to just exist? Corpses, dead in life, buried by transgressions, wandering the course of this perverse world. You were the offspring of the prince of the power of air—oh, how he owned you, just as he still controls those living in disobedience. I’m not talking about the outsiders alone; we were all guilty of falling headlong for the persuasive passions of this world; we all have had our fill of indulging the flesh and mind, obeying impulses to follow perverse thoughts motivated by dark powers. As a result, our natural inclinations led us to be children of wrath, just like the rest of humankind. But God, with the unfathomable richness of His love and mercy focused on us, united us with the Anointed One and infused our lifeless souls with life—even though we were buried under mountains of sin—and saved us by His grace. ⁶ He raised us up with Him and seated us in the heavenly realms with our beloved Jesus the Anointed, the Liberating King.” -Ephesians 2:1-6 (VOICE)

Paul also gives us this reminder:

“Make no mistake: God can’t be mocked. What you give is what you get. What you sow, you harvest. Those who sow seeds into their flesh will only harvest destruction from their sinful nature. But those who sow seeds into the Spirit shall harvest everlasting life from the Spirit.” -Galatians 6:7-8 (VOICE)

“There is no immunity from the consequences of sin; punishment is swift and sure to one and all.” ~Hosea Ballou

My friend, obedience is not just the best option, it is the only option if you do not want to deal with the repercussions of sin, and remember, there are consequences to all our choices, both good and bad, blessings and curses. I encourage you to walk the way of obedience. You will never regret that choice.

“Temptation can be tormenting, but remember: The torment of temptation to sin is nothing to compare with the torment of the consequences of sin. Remorse and regret cannot compensate for sin….though sins can be forgiven immediately – the consequences can last a lifetime” ~Edwin Louis Cole

My Prayer:

Adonai Elohim, my Great Lord, I choose to walk in obedience. I do not want to experience the curses, but the blessings. I want to be a “good fig”, not a “bad fig”. Help me, I pray to be quick to obey. Help me to be in tune with your still, small Voice. Help me to daily meet with you, so that my relationship is current and real. I want to know you, really know you. I desire to become more and more like you. Help me, please, because I know none of this is possible without your help. Thank you, Lord.

Listen and Learn the Ways of Wisdom – Proverbs 4:1-9

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Proverbs 4:1-2 (NIV)
Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.

Proverbs 4:1-2 (MSG)
Listen, friends, to some fatherly advice; sit up and take notice so you’ll know how to live. I’m giving you good counsel; don’t let it go in one ear and out the other.
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“Hear, O children, the instruction of a father, and pay attention [and be willing to learn] so that you may gain understanding and intelligent discernment. For I give you good doctrine; do not turn away from my instruction.” -AMPLIFIED

“The word ‘listen’ contains the same letters as the word ‘silent.'” ~Alfred Brendel

Once again we find Solomon launching into a new lesson concerning wisdom. As it normal for him, we find him encouraging his students to pay close attention, telling them to listen to his instructions and advice; for it will help them gain understanding and discernment. Solomon warns them to not forsake, or turn their backs upon, his teachings.

We need to analyze this concept of listening. Listening is to pay close attention, to focus upon something and attentive. Proper listening involves using your whole body. Your ears are in tune to what the speaker is saying. Your mouth is closed so you are not distracting yourself and others. Your eyes are focused on the speaker. Your hands and feet are still. And your mind is fixed on what the speaker is saying. In this way, you are able to concentrate, without distractions, and process what is being said properly.

“Listening to God is far more important than giving Him your ideas.” ~Frank Laubach

This was what Solomon was expecting from his young students. He wanted them to not just hear with their ears, but with their whole being. Otherwise it could just go in one ear and out the other. He wanted them to take what he was saying seriously, and in the long run be sure that they never turned away from what he was teaching them. They were to make it part of their lives.

Solomon then shares a little something from his own personal experience; a story from his childhood. He tells his students:

“When I was a boy at my father’s knee,
the pride and joy of my mother,
He would sit me down and drill me:
“Take this to heart. Do what I tell you—live!
Sell everything and buy Wisdom! Forage for Understanding!
Don’t forget one word! Don’t deviate an inch!
Never walk away from Wisdom—she guards your life;
love her—she keeps her eye on you.
Above all and before all, do this: Get Wisdom!
Write this at the top of your list: Get Understanding!
Throw your arms around her—believe me, you won’t regret it;
never let her go—she’ll make your life glorious.
She’ll garland your life with grace,
she’ll festoon your days with beauty.” -(MSG)

We find Solomon recounting an instance in his young life where he sat at his father’s knee and his own father, David, taught him the ways of wisdom. Much of what he was teaching his students were things that he learned at his father’s feet; the importance of wisdom and the need for understanding.

David taught Solomon to run after Wisdom and grab hold of her. There was an urgency there for Wisdom and more of it; as if one could not get enough. David impressed upon Solomon the need to cherish Wisdom, and then she would faithfully take care of him.

“If you don’t forsake Lady Wisdom, she will protect you. Love her, and she will faithfully take care of you. Gaining sound judgment is key, so first things first: go after Lady Wisdom! Now, whatever else you do, follow through to understanding. Cherish her, and she will help you rise above the confusion of life—your possibilities will open up before you—embrace her, and she will raise you to a place of honor in return. She will provide the finishing touch to your character—grace; she will give you an elegant confidence.” -(VOICE)

We find in this chapter the importance of keeping Lady Wisdom as our constant companion. If she is in her rightful place, then we will have the confidence we need to make the decisions of life in a godly manner.

“But He said, “On the contrary, blessed (happy, favored by God) are those who hear the word of God and continually observe it.” JESUS, Luke 11:28 (AMP)

The choice is ultimately up to us as individuals though. We can do things Wisdom’s way, God’s way, or we can do things our own way. Further along in this chapter we will see the two distinct path-ways examined and the outcome of each. What we will learn is the importance of listening and following Wisdom’s instructions, which lead to life, and not our own ways, which lead to death.

“Post this at all the intersections, dear friends: Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear. God’s righteousness doesn’t grow from human anger. So throw all spoiled virtue and cancerous evil in the garbage. In simple humility, let our gardener, God, landscape you with the Word, making a salvation-garden of your life.” ~James 1:19-21 (MSG)

Be sure you are using your whole body listening skills when it comes to attending to the ways of Lady Wisdom. Her intentions are to direct you on to the ways of Life, not Death. Hear her and heed her ways.

“The Bible reveals the Father’s overall plan for the world and provides general guidelines for life. But how can we know His specific plans for us? Listening to God is essential to walking with God.” ~Charles Stanley

My Prayer:
Lord, help me to listen to the ways of your Wisdom. I know at times I jump into situations where angels fear to tread; making a mess of things. Forgive me, oh Lord. Help me to still myself before you and listen to Wisdom’s words. Help me to trust you and not to lean on my own understanding; which tends to steer me wrong. Lord, I am learning that your ways are not the best way, but the only way. Teach me to be still more, in order that I can listen to and focus on you and your ways. Thank you for your help, dear Lord.