Highlights:
In chapters 34 & 36, a very loving Heavenly Father warns His children of impending judgment so they may repent (Jer. 36:1-3). No matter how often the wicked try to destroy the Word of God, it comes back, even stronger (36:32). The Rechabites are honored for their lifelong obedience (35:18-19).
More than three years after the Egyptians conquered Judah and appointed Jehoiakim as its king, Nebuchadnezzar defeated Egypt and Jerusalem, and appointed Jehoiakim as his servant-king. Unlike his godly father Josiah, Jehoiakim was a ruthless, cruel, and wicked ruler.
At that time, Jeremiah instructed his secretary Baruch to record the judgment of God saying: Take . . . a roll (scroll) of a book, and write therein all the words that I have spoken unto thee against Israel, and against Judah, . . . and against all the nations (Jer. 36:2).
Then Jeremiah commanded Baruch . . . go . . . and read . . . the words of the Lord. . . in the Lord's House . . . to all Judah. . . . It may be they will . . . return every one from his evil way (36:5-7). The princes (leaders) were disturbed by the prophet's words and immediately informed the king, who sent Jehudi to fetch the roll (36:21).
After Jehudi had read three or four leaves (of the scroll, Jehoiakim flew into a rage, snatched it from Jehudi, and), he cut it with the penknife, and cast it into the fire that was on the hearth, until all the roll was consumed in the fire (36:23). Although Jehoiakim could easily cut up and burn the scroll, that was all he could do. It was beyond his power to destroy the truth the scroll contained.
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it. And the Lord gave Jehoiakim . . . into his hand (Dan. 1:1-2).
Like Jehoiakim, some today seal their fate by refusing to read and believe the truth that God considers necessary to fulfill His will. History records many Bible burnings; but what is the difference between burning it or not reading it? In either case one is prevented from having his heart and life transformed by its illuminating truth.
Without a doubt, the godly, such as Daniel and his friends, suffer because of the sins of others. But, God is able to bless the faithful as he did Daniel. Without exception: All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28).
Thought for Today:
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy (Matt. 5:7).
Christ Revealed:
As the One who desires forgiveness, repentance, and liberty for all who are in bondage (Jer. 36:3). Jesus said: The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me . . . to preach the Gospel (Luke 4:18-19).
Word Studies:
34:5 burnings =ceremonial incense burning, to honor the dead at their funerals, to honor kings at their funerals (II Chr. 16:14); 35:19 not want =be without.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Officials: Sen. Bob Corker (TN), Rep. John Culberson (TX), Gov. Joe Manchin III (WV), and Sen. Jon Tester (MT) • Country: Vatican City (900) in Rome, Italy • Major languages: Italian and Latin • Religious freedom • Approximately 100% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to forgive your sins (Ps. 25:11).
Optional Reading: 2 John 1
Memory Verse for the Week: 2 Corinthians 4:18
