This chapter has two main themes: a letter of encouragement from Jeremiah / God to the exiled Jews, and condemnations / prophesies (also written as letters) for some of the false prophets.
” ‘For thus says the Lord: When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise… For I know the plans I have for you… plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you… and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.’ ” (v10-14 abr)
If one or more of those verses sound familiar, it’s because v11 is frequently used as an ‘encouragement verse’. This verse is often underutilized because it is removed from the fuller context. In full context this verse speaks of God’s promise to support and restore His broken, sinful people to their full inheritance; once they have learned their lesson, of course.
I think we’d all like to receive a letter from God today that says: “Don’t be worrisome or afraid. The circumstances you’re in are temporary. While you’re there, I am with You, and I will not leave your side. I will meet you in your brokenness and pain, holding you in My loving arms when all you can muster is tears. You are My beloved child, restored by the grace and blood of Jesus, and nothing can remove you from My presence. Fear not, for I am with you until the end of this age, and for eternity in Heaven.”
In reality, we do have this letter – it’s called the Bible, ‘God’s love letter’ to us. It’s one giant letter of reassurance that He’s watching over us and caring for us throughout this life and all of its difficulties. He also promises an eternity in Heaven with no more pain or suffering. Let’s meditate on these truths throughout the day, and experience the joy these promises bring.
Father God, our Loving Protector and Generous Provider, You bless us even while we are suffering the consequences of our sin. May we remain close to You, in the difficult times as well as the easier times, knowing that our steadfastness is a testimony for others. May we stand strong on Your promises, never wavering in our faith, so others may be encouraged as well. We seek to honor, glorify, obey and praise You, with every breath and action. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training