This chapter seems out of place in the book – it’s a short note from Jeremiah to his scribe Baruch.
” ‘Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, to you, O Baruch: You said, “Woe is me! For the Lord has added sorrow to my pain… and I find no rest.” … Behold, what I have built I am breaking down, and what I have planted I am plucking up… And do you seek great things for yourself? Seek them not, for behold, I am bringing disaster upon all flesh, declares the Lord. But I will give you your life as a prize of war in all places to which you may go.’ ” (v2-5 abr)
This note from God to Baruch is part warning, and part blessing. Working for Jeremiah he had a rough time – imprisonment and near death experiences were normal for Jeremiah, and by extension, Baruch. God and Jeremiah sought to encourage him by saying (paraphrased): “If you serve the Lord without seeking your own gain, you will be blessed no matter the circumstances of those around you.”
God asks the same of us – to serve Him humbly, without seeking our own personal gain or glory. Jesus did not seek His own glory, despite the fact He was God incarnate. He still directed all glory to God the Father in Heaven. When we do this, God Himself will honor us as He sees fit – not because we earned or deserved such blessings, but because He loves us (we can never earn blessings, mercy, grace, forgiveness, or eternal life – these are blessings / gifts from God).
Father God, our Gracious and Merciful Creator and Redeemer, we praise Your holy name. Holy Spirit, please teach us humility, and remind us to remain humble. May we seek to glorify You Father in all that we say and do, ensuring that we are not pursuing personal honor or approval from our neighbors. If anyone commends us for our obedience to You, may we give You the glory and testify of Your blessings and righteousness, including the gift of eternal life through Jesus our King. To You be all glory, honor and praise, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training