August 8, 2013 (Jeremiah 1-2; John 10)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “This is what the Lord says: “What did your ancestors find wrong with me that led them to stray so far from me? They worshiped worthless idols, only to become worthless themselves.” Jeremiah 2:5 NLT
Observation: The people of Israel, God’s chosen nation, from one generation to another would come to God, and then forsake Him. God would do miraculous things for the people of Israel but they failed to remember the great things God did. The grass always looked a little greener in other pastures. The Lord gave Jeremiah a shocking question to ask the tribe of Judah. “What did your ancestors find wrong with me that led them to stray so far from me?” God knew nothing was wrong with Him, but He was trying to get their attention, and He would. However, even in the face of such strong warning the people still chose to rebel against God. They worshiped worthless idols and became worthless themselves.
Application: Straying from God never turns out to be a good decision. Even though we may face trials and tribulations we don’t understand, remaining faithful to God is of utmost importance. Our ancestors strayed away from God. Our nation has forsaken Him. The laws that are being passed are a direct result of a people that have turned their back on God in search for the greener pastures of worthless idols. God brought us into a fruitful land flowing with milk and honey and we have defiled it by rejecting the One that gave it to us. Like Judah our actions will lead us into exile. We will, as a nation and as a people, experience what an evil and bitter thing it is to abandon the Lord and refuse to fear Him. Repentance from our sins and faith in Christ is our only hope for receiving God’s mercy.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me everyday! Forgive my sins; forgive my lust for greener pastures. Show me the way I should walk, the way that is pleasing in Your sight. My ancestors have left me no legacy; I must seek You on my own. May Your Spirit guide me into Your truth, in Jesus name, Amen!