Vv. 13-17 If they are determined to go to Egypt because they fear the sword and famine of Babylon, then the sword and the famine they fear will overtake them there. Do you look for an unrighteous way to avoid hardship before you? Don’t make excuses, but choose the way God wants. There is no place where you can avoid the eyes of God.
What lesson is God teaching me?
Vv. 18-22 Jeremiah knew that the remnant of Judah asked for prayer even as they were determined to go to Egypt (v. 20). Their strong resolution kept them from obedience and exposed their unstable spiritual condition. Don’t try to accomplish your own will with religious zeal, and in the process block God’s will. If you are determined to do so, then you will not avoid the sword, famine, and disease. Vv. 20-22 Jeremiah could see the hearts of his people with the help of God. Some Christians search God’s will in many ways until they hear what they want to hear. If God’s will is not in line with theirs, they don’t have any intention of obeying. Do I have different ideas from God’s on a certain issue?
I will fear the Lord most and care more about what matters for eternity.
