The Lord was going to bring about the complete destruction of Judah and Jerusalem (1-3). He prophesied this through Jeremiah, so Israel would know that it was the result of their great sin. With each generation, Judah slid further and further from God, culminating in the evil king Manasseh, who practiced every kind of cruelty and idolatry over a 55-year reign (4). This should remind us that once we begin to slide away from God, it is very difficult to change our direction.

The message that Jeremiah had to bring was almost too much for him to bear. Though he had never taken advantage of anyone, everyone cursed him because he brought words of judgment (10). The Lord tried to comfort Jeremiah (11), but still, Jeremiah asks: Why do I have to suffer so much pain when I only deny myself to serve you? (18) In reply, the Lord commands Jeremiah to repent and recommit himself to speak only worthy words, not becoming like people of the world (19).

It is indeed too hard for us to keep standing against the pattern of the world with our own strength. But if we commit ourselves to God and resolve to speak only his words, no one will be able to overcome us (20-21).


Application: Father, thank you for the privilege of being your messenger, even when it brings trouble. Let my true joy be in your words.
One Word: Speak worthy words.