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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise You told Edom, “I will come like a lion from the thickets of the Jordan, leaping on the sheep in the pasture. I will chase Edom from its land, and I will appoint the leader of my choice. For who is like me, and who can challenge me? What ruler can oppose my will?" (Jer 49:19 NLT). When you pounce, there is no one who can resist! I praise you today and exalt your holy name! Today in Your Word Yesterday you told the nations surrounding Israel: “See, I am beginning to bring disaster on the city that bears my Name [Jerusalem], and will you indeed go unpunished?” (Jer 25:29 NIV). As Peter said many years later: “For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (1 Pet 4:17). Today you told me about the oracles that Jeremiah spoke against the nations. These oracles were designed to: (1) announce your punishment on a foreign nation, (2) show that you are sovereign over all nations, not just Israel, (3) fulfill your intention for Israel to act as salt and light to the world, (4) warn Israel of the folly of depending on foreign alliances for their security, and (5) serve as a message of encouragement to Israel (cf. Jer 46:27–28). Jeremiah warned the nations about depending on their gods for help. Those very gods would go into exile along with the priests who worshipped them (Jer 48:7). These oracles give me several insights into your character and plan for the world: (1) although you chose Israel to be your special people, you love everyone and want the whole world to come to you, (2) you delight in salvation and want to build up rather than tear down (Jer 48:47), (3) you are holy and will not tolerate sin, and (4) you are an impartial judge—both Israel and the nations were held accountable for their sin. Reflection I found it interesting that you promised future restoration for Egypt, Moab, Ammon and Elam. Normally I think of you restoring only Israel, but this shows that you care for the Gentile nations just like you care for your chosen people. Request Father, your judgment inevitably falls on a nation who rejects you. Help me to be salt and light in my own country. May my witness lead others to you. Thanksgiving Thank you for caring enough to warn the world of coming judgment and call the nations to repentance. You are indeed a just and merciful God! In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “King of all Kingdoms, God Alone” — Julia H. Johnston. Meditation Verse: Jeremiah 46:28. |