SCRIPTURE: JEREMIAH 16
DAY OF DISASTER (vs. 1-21)
4 PROHIBITIONS:
- Do not marry and have sons or daughter in this place. For they will die of deadly diseases and perish by sword and famine. Their dead bodies will become food for the birds and beast of the earth. (v. 2-4)
- Do not enter a house where there is a funeral meal and do not mourn or show sympathy. For all will die and not be buried or mourned. No one is to offer food to comfort those who mourn for the dead. (vs. 5-7)
- Do not enter a house where there is feasting and sit down to eat and drink. For the sounds of joy and gladness of bride and bridegroom will end. (vs. 8-9)
- Do not look back. God is sending a message of hope for the future restoration of the nation. (vs.14-15)
The reason why God brought great disaster against them was because of their stubborn evil hearts. Because of they worship idols, God was sending fishermen to catch them and hunter to haunt them. This will teach them His power and might and know that His name is the Lord.
THOUGHTS:
God gave Jeremiah 4 prohibitions:
- Do not take a wife – He has to serve alone in communicating God’s message.
- Do not mourn – God’s comfort was taken from His people.
- Do not celebrate – Death was imminent.
- Do not look back – Hope for the future restoration of the nation in underway.
The people of Israel closed their eyes to their selfish ways thinking that it can hide from God. But our God cannot be deceived. He knows about our sins. So, beware of having a sinful attitude or action.
Jeremiah considered the Lord as his strength, fortress and refuge in times of distress. When you fell weak, let God be your strength. When your enemies come against you, let God be your fortress. When you need to retreat from life’s pressures, let God be your refuge.