For I know the plans
I have been reading Jeremiah for my time with the Lord. And I started this journey because we all like to quote Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you…” and as good as that looks on a plaque or a piece of barnwood, there is so much more to the book of Jeremiah.
Today, as I was reading in Jeremiah 35 a couple of things, hit me. The first was that the family call The Rekabites, even though they did not follow the Lord and His words, they were loyal to the traditions and the words of their forefathers.
Their forefathers said, “Don’t drink wine.” So they didn’t
Their forefathers said, “ You must never build houses, sow seed or plant vineyards.” So they didn’t.
Their forefathers also said, “you must always live in tents,” So they did.
Even when Jeremiah brings them into a room and puts wine before them, they stand their ground and do not drink the wine. They then tell Jeremiah the why. They stand on the words left by their forefathers.
OBEDIENCE
What or who are you obeying?
God then goes to the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem (vs 13) and tells them the story of the Rekabites and how they still are obeying the commands of their forefathers. He then goes on to say, but I (The Lord) have spoken to you again and again yet you have not obeyed me. Again and again, I sent all my servants the prophets to you. They said, “Each of you must turn from your wicked ways and reform your actions; do not follow other gods to serve them.” But you have not paid attention or listened to me. He then once again talks about the diehard obedience of the Rekabites and His own people won’t even obey.
Then chapter 35 ends with the obedience of the Rekabites are rewarded and called into service for the Lord.
Writing the word OBEDIENCE today, I saw for the first time that the word “DIE” is smack dab in the middle of the word. And when you are being obedient, you have to “DIE” to self to obey God. Romans 12:1-2 says:
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
How many times are we willing to “die” and become “transformed” for a family tradition or legacy but aren’t willing to listen and obey The Lord and His Words and His Traditions?