This lengthy chapter concludes Jeremiah’s prophesy of destruction against Babylon.
“It is he who made the earth by his power, who established the world by his wisdom, and by his understanding stretched out the heavens. When he utters his voice there is a tumult of waters in the heavens, and he makes the mist rise from the ends of the earth. He makes lightning for the rain, and he brings forth the wind from his storehouses… A voice! A cry from Babylon! The noise of great destruction from the land of the Chaldeans! For the Lord is laying Babylon waste and stilling her mighty voice… for the Lord is a God of recompense; he will surely repay. I will make drunk her officials and her wise men, her governors, her commanders, and her warriors; they shall sleep a perpetual sleep and not wake, declares the King, whose name is the Lord of hosts.” (v15-16, 54-57 abr)
One part of this chapter establishes who God is, and those who choose to be obedient / disobedient. Another part describes the utter decimation of those who refuse to repent, even once they know who God truly is.
Ideally, there should be no question in anyone’s mind who God is – there are many passages like v15-16 describing our Lord and Creator, and His mighty works. Yet, many still (unfortunately) choose (out of their free will) to suffer the fate of Babylon / Chaldea.
Let’s tell everyone, using words if / when necessary, who God and Jesus are. The better we represent Jesus as His ambassadors, the more people will know who God is, and the more likely they will call Jesus their King. Let’s also remember to do this in partnership with the Holy Spirit – we want to be seen as “passionate followers of Jesus”, not “Bible thumpers”.
Father God, our All-Powerful Creator, All-Knowing King, and Always-Present Shepherd, we seek to honor and glorify You with both our words and actions. May our conduct reflect the glory of Jesus, and may our speech declare His majesty for all to hear. May we love our neighbor as You love them, and never cease to obey Your voice. Spirit, please help us to do this, and Jesus please show us the way. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training