Jeremiah was called to deliver the message of God's judgment. The first words that came to Jeremiah showed the sin Jerusalem committed. They did not live up to keeping God's command. They abandoned God and replaced the position with idols. They foolishly turned away from the streams of living water and built a cistern that could not even hold stale water (13).

In contrast, God reminds them of the early days in their history when they devoted themselves fully to God. They were disciplined in the wilderness for many years, learning to depend on God only (2,3). They did grumble, yet they always turned to God, knowing his protection and provision for them.

However, in the Promised Land, where they received all promised blessings and comfort, they rebelled against God and turned toward worthless idols (7,8). That was the reason for the punishment they were facing. Are you looking for your salvation from anything other than our sovereign God? Remember your first love and turn to him.


Application: Father, you brought me out of the power of sin and death. You have been with me when I was too weak to stand alone and raised me, protecting and providing. Please be with me and help me to hold to you in times of blessing or trouble with a humble heart.
One Word: Remember God and do not turn away.