After the assassination of their governor, the leaders of the remnant of Judah had asked Jeremiah for the Lord’s direction. But when he said what they did not want to hear, they accused Jeremiah of conspiring against them (1-3). In reality, their own hearts were stubbornly set on going to Egypt. So, they led the entire remnant of Judah away to Egypt and forced Jeremiah to come as well (4-7). Once they arrived in Egypt, God had Jeremiah bury stones as a sign that God’s judgment by the king of Babylon could reach them even in Egypt (8-13).

God kept putting Jeremiah in a hostile and dangerous environment. But it was because he wanted to use Jeremiah to keep giving God’s word to his people, even after they disobeyed. God’s presence goes even with stubborn and rebellious people, patiently trying to help them repent. Jeremiah resembles Jesus, who came and lived among us sinners so we could be saved.
Application: Father, thank you that your presence has been with me even when I have been disobedient. Help me open my heart to listen to your word from wherever I am.
One Word: God’s word follows his people.