This chapter contains prophesy regarding the upcoming exile of Judah into Babylon captivity.
“Thus says the Lord to me, ‘…Take the loincloth that you have bought, which is around your waist, and arise, go to the Euphrates and hide it there in a cleft of the rock.’ …after many days the Lord said to me, ‘…take from there the loincloth…’ Then I went to the Euphrates, and dug, and I took the loincloth from the place where I had hidden it. And behold, the loincloth was spoiled; it was good for nothing. …’Thus says the Lord: Even so will I spoil the pride of Judah and the great pride of Jerusalem.’ ” (v1-11 abr)
God commands Jeremiah to purchase a priestly garment, which displays honor and dignity, and be seen wearing it. He’s then to journey to Babylon and bury it, then retrieve it some time later. Once retrieved, the spotless garment is now completely ruined by exposure. This is a prophetic picture of how Israel/Judah were once highly honorable and esteemed when they clung to God, though they will go to Babylon in ruin because they have been spoiled / corrupted by sin.
This fairly public display of Jeremiah wearing this garment, journeying to Babylon twice (which would have taken roughly 3 months), and then having this ruined garment should have given Judah some food for thought / discussion. Unfortunately, they were so far gone in their sin that they refused to change (see v22-23).
God doesn’t immediately destroy / banish someone because they sin once in a while – He gives them chances to repent. Someone is eventually cast out from God’s presence only when they refuse to repent (like the Judeans). Let’s ask God to help keep our hearts humble and soft, so we can heed every warning, and obey God as best we can. If we repent often, and set Christlike examples of obedience for our neighbors, we help build Jesus’ kingdom and may even avoid some extra consequences of sin – it’s a win-win.
Father God, our Loving and Generous Lord, thank you for making Your guidance and forgiveness accessible to us. Thank you for the indwelling Spirit who helps us remain close to You and humble, so we may heed Your voice and obey You more frequently. Please help us be shining lights in the world of darkness, and build Jesus’ kingdom, for Your glory and honor, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training