August 5 - Jeremiah 25:15-38 | Jeremiah 36:1-32 | Jeremiah 45:1-46:28

Good morning everyone,

This morning we are introduced to Baruch, Jeremiah’s scribe. Most people in those times could neither read or write so those who could had pretty good job security, if you know what I mean. Baruch was asked to put to paper, or more accurately papyrus, the Word of God as given to Jeremiah. He wanted to send yet another message to attempt to turn them from their wicked ways and seek to do the will of God. What an amazing honor for Baruch and “no pressure” right? I can hear Jeremiah telling him, “Pay close attention, get these words right :-)” God told Jeremiah, “Perhaps when the people of Judah hear about every disaster I plan to inflict on them, they will each turn from their wicked ways; then I will forgive their wickedness and their sin.” I absolutely love how God is always willing, delighted even, to gather us under His wing whether it be welcoming a new convert or someone who just got lost for a spell. He is anxiously waiting to forgive our wickedness and sin.

Well, when the scroll was delivered and read to the king he paid it no heed. Instead he cut it up and threw it in the fire, piece by piece, until the entire scroll was burned up. Pretty arrogant, also pretty dangerous. The Lord told Jeremiah to do it all again but this time he added a little personal message to king Jehoiakim. A promise to punish him, his children and his attendants for their wickedness and that he would have no one to sit on the throne of David. When Jehoiakim died, his son was king for only three months only before taken into captivity, not qualifying an actual rein, thus fulfilling prophecy.

I do want to point out that in verse 25 we read that only three of all the king’s men protested the burning of the scroll. This would have taken incredible courage in a time where torture, brutality and “off with his head” was a way of life. Anyone who decides to live for Christ needs to be prepared to stand up for what is right even if everyone else does not. It is not enough to “not” participate in the “gossiping” or “bullying” or “cheating” or any other “ing”, if you are watching it being done and not saying anything to stop it, then you are committing it in your heart and you are just as guilty. Galatians 6:1 says, “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” Tempted? Matthew 5:28 says, “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” And while this verse speaks to lust it can easily be said about all sin, a covetous desire that arouses in our hearts.

No matter who we are and what that looks like to each of us every day, there are times when we are all subject to the enemy’s heavy and dark presence around us, a time when the he prowls about our space waiting to take down anyone in the room or wherever. It is in such an atmosphere that genuine faith shines most brightly. I would encourage you to stand up for what is right. Stand up for Jesus, hold your candle high up for Christ. I love the children’s song that says; This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine. All around the neighborhood, I’m gonna let it shine. Hide it under a bushel? I’m gonna let it shine. Don’t let Satan blow it out! I’m gonna let it shine. Let it shine, all the time, let it shine! Amen?

Have a good day and to God be the glory.

God bless you all ….