Jeremiah 11 -- I WARNED You

God said to Jeremiah, “I warned your ancestors … I have warned them again and again … But your ancestors did not listen to Me.  They were stubborn and did what their own evil hearts wanted.”

 

God had planned to bless these people, but they just couldn’t stand it.  They had to sin.  Then they had the gall to go to the Temple as if nothing had happened and worship!

 

“What is My beloved Judah doing in My Temple when she makes evil plans?  Do you think animal sacrifices will stop your punishment?”

 

God even revealed to Jeremiah that men from his own hometown were planning to kill him.  God had already instructed Jeremiah not to pray for the people because of their wickedness.  Now, Jeremiah sees why and said, “So let me see You give them the punishment they deserve.”

 

My commentary said, “But what we worship and the way we worship are not incidentals in life:  they’re essentials that determine the character of life itself.  A people’s lives are only as good as their worship … If worship is corrupt, life will be corrupt.”

 

It also noted Romans 2:24 – “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,” and asked us this question:  “Do the worldly lives and questionable activities of professed believers disgrace God’s name?  Remember, God’s ‘last word’ to the church isn’t the Great Commission; it’s “Repent, or else!” in Revelation.”

 

Thank You for reminding me again of the importance of my life reflecting my worship of You, Father.  There can be no ‘shadow of turning’ without Your name also being blasphemed among unbelievers, and I don’t want that to happen, Father.

 

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford