JEREMIAH 27-46

Jeremiah is the weeping prophet.  He weeps over the judgment that comes upon Israel, and he is the messenger of that judgment.  We don't always enjoy the task God has for us to perform, but it is a necessary task and God always knows best.  Here are just a few truths for today: 1) GOD'S THOUGHTS- In Jeremiah 29:11, God lets us know what He things about those to whom judgment has fallen.  "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."  God thinks peace towards us even when we are going astray.  Now He will chastise us, but only to bring about the "expected end".  (good results).  Know today, that God loves you and has only the best in mind for you.  Along that line, Jeremiah 31:3 says: "yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee." 2) AMAZING- That is what Jeremiah 35 is... just amazing.  We have the story of the Rechabites whose father Jonadab, told them not to drink wine nor build a house, nor sow seed, nor plant anything, but live in tents and be shepherds.  Now, God, to illustrate something to Jeremiah, tells him in verse 2 to go give them wine to drink.  In verse 6-10, they refuse and tell how their father Jonadab told them to not drink wine and not to do those other things.  Then God tells Jeremiah to go the children of Israel and tell them what you found out about the Rechabites and in verse 14, God says: "notwithstanding, I have spoken unto you, rising early and speaking; but ye hearkened not unto me."  God says I've sent my prophets telling you what to do and you have not listened, and these Rechabites have obeyed the voice of Jonadab. (who lived 300 years earlier!!)  The moral of the chapter is:  They listened to a man, but you don't listen to GOD!  Oh, how I pray we do! 3) WHOSE WORDS SHALL STAND?  In Jeremiah 45:28, God is speaking through His prophet to the remnant of Judah, and God says this phrase: "shall know whose words shall stand, mine, or theirs."  When it comes to all of the false religions and prophecies, cults and followings.... whose words shall stand?  Mark it down... God's will!! Hope you have a blessed day!  Pastor Mike Mutchler