Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Treat any power giving you by God with humility and respect (Jer 51:20-26). #HumbleAuthority #Hammered

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The great and powerful God described in vv15–19 is Jehovah-God. It is he who will be against Babylon. He will utterly destroy Babylon. Not a single stone will be left standing (see also 50:35–38). Babylon was God’s hammer of judgment against the nations. Now God will shatter Babylon and destroy her.

Babylon’s judgment is due to the wrong they did in Zion, desecrating the Temple (vv 24; 50:28; 51:11). Not even one cornerstone will be left upon which to rebuild the city. When men become drunk with power, they go too far. But the power of God can humble such a person or nation abruptly. Lord, may I always treat any power or authority given me with humility and respect for God and for others.

The Thread of Life is Cut

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

May this great nation of America return to God before it is too late (Jer 51:6-14). #ReturnNowToGod #Repent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Any nation, any city, yea, any person who thinks they can commit sacrilege towards God, can commit arrogance towards God, should think again. Before you know it, greatness can become a vapor. America could learn a lesson from Babylon (Isa 26:9). Babylon’s enemies were found, swarming her streets and shouting triumph over her.

America’s greatness is being squandered. Criminals, illegal aliens and terrorist are streaming in and swarming in and through the streets of America. Her systems of law, order, justice and moral sensibilities are being crushed. Only God knows the outcome. Will America’s “thread of life be cut” (v13)?

Lord, may we as a people in America turn to you before it is too late (note v9).

Lean In To God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Lean in to God in times of bitter personal (national) conflict, trials or correction (Jer 50:33,34 – 51:1-5).

There follows here, another declarative statement of God’s intentions to destroy Babylon. She will be blown away like chaff in the wind. Her military will not even draw their first arrow. Their fierce adversary will be swift, mighty, and merciless. It will overwhelm Like a lion’s attack on a lamb.

The king of Babylon will feel great anguish over the approach of the adversary. It will be no vassal state. The Lord of Heaven’s Armies will stir a powerful enemy (Psm 35:10–12) and thoroughly vindicate his people. His people had sinned against him. But still, he is their God, the Holy one of Israel.

Lord, I may lean in to you in times of bitter conflict, trial or correction (personal or national).

_____________

Two things are clear to me in this passage:

1. Any enemy of God‘s people stands no chance against our mighty God. Let the nations beware. He is the mighty force behind the rise and fall of nations.

2. Though God may at times discipline us severely, we may trust him to remain steadfast and long suffering with us. We may lean in to the arms of God in times of personal/national discipline and correction.

God Is Not Mocked

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Walk and serve humbly before God (Jer 50:33,34; Mic 6:8). #WsakHumblyBeforeGod #GodIsNotMocked

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This is another reminder of who it is that is bringing destruction to Babylon and the deliverance of Israel from exile. It is none other than “the God of Heaven’s Armies.“

Is the mighty arm of the Lord falling on Babylon because he used her to bring judgment on his people? No. It is because Babylon was arrogant, mocked & defied God; she literately enjoyed watching people suffer. Any who are used of God, for any purpose, must be cautious in the use of their power.

God can raise up and God can take down any leader or any nation, and he will (Dan 2:21; Psm 75:7). Lord, may this sentry always walk humbly before you; may my service to you bring you honor and glory.

God’s Hammer, Crushed

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Come quickly seeking grace and forgiveness (Jer 50:21–32).#TurnNowToGod #Repent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The nations are called up by God to bring judgment on Babylon. Her pride, arrogance, rejection of God and sacrilege to the Temple of God will bring the ire of God and her total destruction.

Two words say it all: “Merathaiam” and “Pekod”, two cities in southern Babylon. In Hebrew, Merathaiam means double rebellion and Pekod means punishment or judgment. The hammer used of God will itself be crushed & shattered (v23).

Because of Babylon’s pride and sacrilege (double rebellion), God will bring judgment and destruction to her. Pride and sacrilege will always lead to a fall. (Pro 16:18). Lord, may I be quick to embrace you and return in humble repentance (1Jn 1:9).

Hope In God’s Promises

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Take joy and peace, knowing God is for you (Jer 50:17–20). #God’sProtection #God’sProvision

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Because of her sin, Israel was scattered and devoured by “lions” (Assyria and Babylon). God will, and did, bring down both empires. God‘s people may take hope in the ultimate provision and protection of his remnant. They will be brought safely home to his fold.

Although there was not a mass return to Israel when Babylon fell, there will be in the last days (Isa 11:11,12). Israel will again be satisfied in their fruit-filled fields. Their sin will be absolved and forgiven. This is a promise of the new, far better, covenant (Heb 8:6) God‘s people may take hope in the words of Jeremiah.

Lord, you are always at work in the world with your eye on your people.

Lights Out on Babylon

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Resolve to act humbly in whatever success given by God (Jer 50:11–16). #WalkHumblyBeforeGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God clarifies his reasons for destroying Babylon. God used Babylon as an instrument to discipline his people (Hab 1:1-11). He is not destroying Babylon for that, but for her prideful hubris over violent attacks on God‘s people. Babylon rejoiced in her wicked and violent ways.

The nations are called to unify and do to Babylon what she had done to others. Proverbs says, “If you gloat over your enemies demise, God will turn his anger on you. God will turn the light of the wicked out“ (Pro 24:17-20). Lord, may I resolve to act humbly in any success that you give me.

Prophecy: Then, Yet Far Away

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Eagerly anticipate the second coming of Christ (Jer 50:1–10). #Maranatha #ComeLordJesus

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This is no hidden prophecy. “Tell the whole world, hold nothing back – Babylon (a symbol of evil through time] will fall.” Seventy years later (539 BC), she was conquered by King Cyrus of the Medo-Persian Empire. It is further announced that God‘s people in captivity (exile) to Babylon would be set free. Having been led astray by their shepherds, they would now find their way home to the sheepfold of God’s making.

While much of this came true after 539 BC, some things are yet to be fulfilled. Babylon as a place and as a symbol of evil, was not totally destroyed by King Cyrus. Also, the total surrender of God’s people to God and return to Jerusalem was only partially fulfilled. So there is a blending of the soon to come then and the yet far away events. God’s calendar is still in play today. *

Lord, may our days today see the total fulfillment of all these events –“Maranatha!”…Oh, Lord, come! (Rev 22:20; Phi 3:20; Tit 2:13; et al.).

_________

* Walvoord & Zuck. The Bible Knowledge Commentary of the Old Testament. Victor Books, 1985), 1199.

A Prophetic Scroll

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Give praise to God as the supreme power of the universe (Jer 50:1–3). #Omnipotence #Omniscience

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The prophecies and historical facts of the ancient city of Babylon are interesting to read and correlate together. In Jeremiah‘s Scroll, read to the Jews early in their exile (captivity) in Babylon, he describes the total destruction and demise of this ancient Middle East power/empire.

Jeremiah chapters 50 and 51 consolidate many of the prophecies he spoke into one document (scroll). God says, “Let the entire known world be notified. Babylon will fall. Her idols, Bel and Marduk, will be shattered, shamed, and disgraced; of no help to Babylon before Jehovah God (51:15–19). He is the sovereign power, source and sustainer of the universe.

Lord, may the heart of the prayer sentry bow in singular praise before your sovereign omnipotence & omniscience.

Dangerous False Narratives

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be discerning of false and lying leaders (Jer 23:13–15). #GodlySpiritualLeaders #PastorsTeachersProphets #DevotedToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah compares the prophets in Jerusalem (Judah – southern kingdom) to the Samarian prophets of Israel, the northern kingdom, already judged and gone. These Samarian prophets prophesied in the name of Baal (the Canaanite deity). They were wicked men and lead Israel into all kinds of sin.

Jeremiah saw the prophets of Judah as worse than the their counterparts. They were dishonest, liars, and adulterers on par with the people of Sodom & Gomorrah (symbolizing ultimate depravity). These prophets led the people of Judah into all manner of sin. They would be made to drink of the bitter waters of judgment.

Lord, may I (our nation) be discerning of those who paint a false view of God and the future.

Broken-hearted

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Give us spirit-filled leaders who honor God and speak the truth (Jer 23:9–12). #GodlySpiritualLeaders #PastorsTeachersProphetsDevotedToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Following Jeremiah‘s confrontation with Hananiah, an influential but false prophet (Ch 28), he turns his attention from the kings of Judah to the prophets and priests. Jeremiah is heartbroken at the condition of the office of prophet and priest in Judah. They were godless men who polluted and profaned the temple. They maintained a very low view of God. They did not respect God‘s word.

Spiritual and moral adultery was rampant. These so called spiritual leaders carried out their despicable acts even in the temple. God would chase them down. They would be judged for their sin, their detestable ways. Men and women who do not preach the truth will be severely dealt with by God. Lord, may I have the highest view of your word; may we have men and women in spiritual leadership, who speak truth and honor God.

TRUST, BUT VERIFY TOO

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May our nation (people) and her leaders (religious & political) speak the truth of God (Jer 28:15-17). #BeDiscerningOfTruth #SpeakTheTruth #TrustButVerify #TrustGodsWord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah confronted the “prophet” Hananiah with the truth (vv12–14). But here, he tells this false prophet, because he led the people astray from God‘s truth, he would die within that year. Two months later, Hananiah was dead. God is serious about his plans for his people.*

Jeremiah reminds us that the proof of a true prophet is that his prophecies will come to pass (v9; Deu 18:22). By the way, Jeremiah is careful to date this message (v1). There would be no doubt who had spoken God‘s truth. History reveals Jeremiah’s prophecies as true. Those who speak falsely, rebelliously, against God, will be severely judged.

Lord, “may the words of [this old sentry] and the meditations of [his] heart be pleasing unto you” (Psm 19:14).

______________

* A similar incident occurs in Acts Chapter Five in the early stages of the inauguration of the church. Lying to God’s people is a serious offense.

Restoration Promise

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we know as a people the joy of the full restoration of God (Jer 27:22). #God’sRestoration #RestorationPromise

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The Lord does not leave his people without hope. Though judgment may fall upon the land of Judah, the precious implements of worship be removed from the temple in Jerusalem, God promises to restore them to their place (people & worship).

God reveals here that there will be restoration after judgment and discipline has befallen his people. God never leaves us without Hope. America is not without hope. Lord, though this sentry, my beloved country, may feel the pain of your discipline, may I (we) also know joy and hope in the promise of your full restoration.

God Uses Whom He Choses

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Trust God to work all things for our good (Jer 27:2–6). #TrustGod #SurrenderAllToGod #WhomGodChoosesHeUses

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God instructed Jeremiah to use an object lesson to speak to the ambassadors of five surrounding nations of Judah. “Make a YOKE (symbol of bondage) and fasten it around your neck. Send these men home to their respective kings with the message,* submit to Babylon.“ He also was to remind them that God (not their gods) made the earth and the men and animals that inhabit it. He is all powerful. He exalts whom he chooses.

Babylon at this time was God’s chosen servant and it would, for a time, conquer and control these nations. They should surrender to the YOKE of Babylon’s control, for their own good. These words reveal that God is at work behind-the-scenes for the good of all people – especially his own people. Lord, may I take to heart the words of Romans 8:28 and trust you in “all things”.

This is still true today, for America and all other nations

_______

* It’s possible that Jeremiah may have sent a YOKE home with each ambassador to reinforce the message to surrender to Babylon.

God’s Plan For The Nations

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Acknowledge and surrender to God’s will and plan (Jer 27:1–8). #ISurrenderAll #YesGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God‘s plan for his people was a 70 year exile into Babylon. Babylon was God’s servant in this process. They were conquering all the nations around and including Judah. It is likely that these nations, represented by ambassadors, were in Jerusalem to meet with king Zedekiah (a meeting of the minds) to discuss an overthrow of Babylon.

By God‘s will however, there would be no such plan, enabling his people to escape judgment. God‘s purposes were to lead them into brokenness, repentance and renewed passion to serve him (Jer 29:10-14). Nothing would stand in God‘s way, then or now, of accomplishing those purposes. Lord, I acknowledge your will and surrender my will to you and your plan for me. I acknowledge that you have a plan too, for America. May she listen and surrender.

Say What??

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be discerning of those who speak lies and live for their own self interests. (Jer 29:15-23). #BelieveGod #DiscernTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Although God has a “good plan” for his people (vv10–14), to bring them through his discipline, they have a long way to go. But the seers and prophets in their midst were telling them lies and living licentious lives. They sought to silence, Jeremiah (vv26–28). They were giving a false sense of hope.

God will deal harshly with the sin of those who falsely represent God. Part of God‘s “good plan“ includes his discipline. In this case, it will take 70 years to bring his people through that discipline as part of God’s “good plan”. “No one enjoys discipline. But it will produce a good harvest of righteousness in those who are trained by it“ (Heb 12:11).

Lord, may I always speak the truth and live putting others interests ahead of my own (Eph 4:14,15; Phi 2:4).

A Good Plan

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Trust God with all of your future (Jer 29:10-14). #TrustGod #BelieveGod #AFutureAndAHope

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This may be one of the most hope filled passages in the Old Testament. God’s people are given assurance of deliverance, in spite of their dire circumstances. God will not forget his people. His plan is purposeful, and his discipline will achieve its desired outcome.

God‘s people will once again call Upon him. He will be found and present with them. He will restore their fortune and return them to their land, and so he did. Our God is a God of purpose and hope. Lord, I am encouraged about my own future by the words of this passage.

Doing Life in Trials

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Stan squarely on the veracity of God‘s word & pray for America (Jer 29:4–10).

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah sent a letter to the exiles who were deported following the demise of Judah’a king Jehoiachin and the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon (vv1–4). He told them to prepare for a long stay, 70 years.

Jeremiah also tells them to build houses and plant gardens to sustain themselves. They were to marry, have children, find them spouses and have grandchildren – multiply, not stagnate. They were to work for and pray for the welfare and prosperity of the land in which they were living. They were not to listen to the false prophets telling them any different.

Why listen to Jeremiah? Because all his prophecies came to fruition. So would this one. Lord, may I stand on your word; work for and pray for the welfare of my country.

Incredulous!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Pay careful attention to God‘s discipline (Jer 24:5–7). #Father’sHeart #God’sDiscipline

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Whom the Lord loves he disciplines; NOT FUN, but yields the fruit of righteousness (Heb 12:6–11; Pro 3:12,24). Those exiled to Babylon would yet know the blessings of God. The rod of God’s discipline would yield good fruit (“good figs”). Those in Babylon were not enslaved as in Egypt. They had homes, businesses and basic freedoms to live (Daniel became a person of great influence).

Those who ran from God‘s discipline thought the exiled ones were the ones far from God. But incredulously, they were the ones unyielded to God. Those in exile would know the blessings of God (Ezk 11:14–17ff); find their way back to God. Those who ran would know only disgrace. Lord, may I listen to my heavenly Father and know the peaceable fruit of righteousness.

Last Man Standing…Against God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Do not neglect/reject God‘s long-suffering towards you (2 Ki 24:17–20; 2Ch 36:12–16). #TurnNowToGod #Repent #LastManStanding #God’sLongSuffering

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

As the final days of Judah as a nation close in, the last king of Judah is appointed by the Babylonian king. His name, Zedekiah (Hebrew name – Mattaniah). He was Jehoiachin‘s uncle (brother to his father, Jehoiakim) and a son of the good king Josiah. Zedehiah was the last king of Judah (last man standing). He was an unrighteous and wicked man, like his brother, Jehoiakim.

Zedekiah hardened his heart towards God. All the leaders, priest and people followed his example. Still, in compassion, God sent his prophets again and again. But they were mocked and ridiculed, finally, beyond remedy. Though God knows the outcome of all things, he still had compassion and continued to offer pardon for sin. But the people refused him. Lord, may I not neglect the plain truth of your long-suffering towards me.

Serious About Sin

[This text requires a slightly longer post]

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we live our lives in faithful surrender to God (2Ki 24:13-16). #Surrender #ReturnNowToGod #FaithfulForGod #Repent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Babylonian King, Nebuchadnezzar, took captive Judah’s king, his family and all of the commanders and officials. He also took 7000 of the best most fit soldiers, 1000 craftsman and many more of the royal’s (including Daniel – Dan 1:1,2).* This was by far the largest siege and deportation of people from Jerusalem to Babylon (the second of three).

In all Nebuchadnezzar removed 10,000 people out of Jerusalem and left only the poorest in the land. Finally, he looted all the treasures from king’s palace. He looted, destroyed and burned the Temple and destroyed the walls around Jerusalem.

All of this was in consequence for unrepentant sin.

Know this, God is serious about sin.

Know also that, in loving kindness, God offers salvation to all who will turn to him in repentance. Lord, it is my desire to live my life in faithful surrender to you.

__________

* Be reminded that all of this was an ongoing fulfillment of several prophecies (Isa 39:1-7; Hab 1:5,6,12). God’s word is true and he keeps his word.

Our Example Matters

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Exercise humble contrition before God (Jer 22:24–30). #SinHasConsequences #Repent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The second prophecy in Play at this point in Judah‘s history is Jeremiah‘s earlier prophecy about the demise of Jahoiachin (Jehoiakim’s son). He and his mother would be taken prisoner and deported along with many others to Babylon. There Jahoiachin, his children and his mother would die. None of his descendants would sit on the throne of David. He may as well have been childless.

Some wondered, “Why would God do such a thing?” (v 28). It was for sin (2Ki 24:9). Number one, no one is so important that God would tolerate their sin; no matter how highly thought of they may be. Second, “earth“ or “land“ is repeated three times. This emphasizes God’s sovereignty over all the affairs of earth.

Lord, I must double down on the importance of living a life of contrition before my Creator.

Legacy Matters*

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be inspired by GODLY examples of faith; be one yourself (2Ki 24:6–12). #Legacy #LegacyMatters

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After the death of Johoiakim his son, Johoiachin, became king of Judah. He was 18 years of age. He reigned for 90 days. In that short time he proved that he was just as wicked as his father. Jehoiakim‘s legacy to his son was arrogance, immorality, self aggrandizement, and rebellion.

Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, was not going to tolerate any further rebellion in Judah (already under Babylonian control). So he laid siege to Jerusalem. Jehoiachin and his mother were both taken prisoner and deported to Babylon. They never returned to Judah again. Lord, may I leave a legacy that inspires faithfulness to God.

________

* Legacy is a robust influencer for good or bad. The root word of legacy is “legate”: an envoy, emissary or ambassador; one appointed to represent another.

EXAMPLE: The apostle Paul said, ”we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, ‘Come back to God!’ “ (2Co 5:19-20)

All that said, I define legacy as, an ambassador of inspiration after I am dead and gone.

Remain Faithful To God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Resolve to remain faithful to God in all your ways (Jer 22:18-23; 2Ki 24:5,6) #RetunToGod #Repent

Jehoiakim’s Unceremonious Death and Burial

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Following the prophecies of the destruction of Judah’s enemies (Jer Chs 48 & 49), we read Jeremiah’s prophecy of the final days of king Jehoiakim. It’s not a pretty picture. He would not live to see his enemies destroyed.

No one will mourn Jehoiakim’s death. His body will be dragged to the city dump and unceremoniously discarded like an old mule. He was warned multiple times of his need to repent and turn back to God. But he would not listen. For this he went down in shame and disgrace just a Jeremiah said.*

Lord, may this old sentry remain faithful to the Lord my God; may America’s leaders lead us to follow God.

_________

* According to Jewish historian, Josephus, Jehoiakim’s demise is confirmed. He writes that Nebuchadnezzar [King of Babylon] slew Jehoiakim along with high-ranking officers and then commanded Jehoiakim’s body “to be thrown before the walls, without any burial.” Jeremiah’s prophecy is fulfilled.

Having Peace With God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we (America) resolve to walk humbly before God (Jer 48:1-49:39 as selected). #WalkHumblyWithGod #BeJustAndMerciful

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah chapters 48 and 49 name the nations and cities around Judah to be judged and destroyed (Moab- 48:1, Ammon- 49:1, Edom- 49:7, Damascus- 49:23, Kedar/Hazor- 49:28 and Elam- 49:34).*

Scripture does not explain the specific sins of each nation. A few sins in these nations do take center stage: godlessness, idolatry, pride/arrogance and harassment of Israel. None will be spared who pridefully stick their finger in God’s eye and consider themselves beyond reproach. The key to living at peace with God is to “be just and merciful to others to live humbly before him (Mic 6:8).

Lord, may I (may the American people) be resolved to follow faithfully and walk humbly before you.

_________

* Moab, Ammon and Elam are prophesied some sort of restoration. Commentators mostly agree that these and similar promises of mercy after judgment are chiefly to be understood as the conversion of the Gentiles under the gospel.

Last Act of Defiance

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Remain surrendered in your heart to God (2Ki 24:1–5). #RepentAndReturnToGod #FullSurrenderToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Johoiakim, king of Judah, has defiantly burned the scroll containing Jeremiah‘s prophecy (Jer 36:21,26–32). He is destined to live out his days as a king in conflict. He loses his ally Egypt – defeated by Babylon. As a result, Judah and the nations around her become vassal states of Babylon.

After three years, Johoiakim defiantly rebels against Nebuchadnezzar. Babylon is quick to respond through new proxy nations they control and put the rebellion down (first of three invasions; captives, including Johoiakim, were deported to Babylon). All this happened just as God promised through the prophets due to the sins of Manasseh (2Ki 21:10–16). Johoiakim returned and died in Jerusalem, but had no royal burial (Jer 22:18,19).

Men foolishly think that they can defy God without consequence. Lord, may I always know a surrendered heart to you.

Storm Warning

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Heed the warning signs of sin’s consequences (Jer 36:26–32). #WarningSigns #StormWarning #SinHasConsequences

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After the defiant Jehoiakim had burned the scroll of Jeremiah‘s prophecies he ordered Jeremiah and his scribe Baruch to be arrested. But God had hidden them and they were not found. After that, the Lord spoke to Jeremiah another message:

“Write the scroll again. Inform the king, “You did not like what the scroll said regarding the king of Babylon who would destroy Judah completely. Now this is what I [the Lord] say about you, king of Judah. You will have no heirs to succeed you on the throne of David. Your body will be unburied and exposed to the elements (Jer 22:17-19). I will pour out disaster on Judah just as I have promised. For neither you nor my people would listen to my warnings.”

Lord, may every sentry recognize that there will be grave consequences for sin.

DEFIANT!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Respect & revere God’s word; repent & return to God (Jer 36:20-26). #Repent #ReturnToGod #RespectGod’sWord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

“DEFIANT!“ That is the only word that comes to my mind reading this passage. The king of Judah listened to the reading of Jeremiah‘s prophecies against Judah. Then, section by section, as it was read, he DEFIANTLY cut the scroll and put it in a fire pot…burned it completely up.

Frighteningly, no one present in his court showed any remorse or repentance for sin. Three officials from the Temple briefly protested, but to no avail. Jehoiakim‘s actions revealed his attitude toward God, DEFIANT! It would not end well for him or the nation of Judah.

Lord, may I respect and revere your word, repent where convicted and return to you.

Signs of Destruction

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we in America not neglect a sincere repentance (Jer 36:5–7). #Repent #ReturnToGod #NationalRepentance

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The dating of this chapter (“the fourth year of Jehoiakim’s reign in Judah“ – v1) is significant. The Babylonians had already taken over Palestine* and had enforced their will on Judah. Jehoiakim was already paying tribute (taxes) to Nebuchadnezzar. Jerusalem and the land around it had not yet been destroyed. But signs of destruction were present. Jeremiah’s prophecies were unfolding.

The day of fasting mentioned here would have been an important event, as it was being held in response to a national emergency. Babylonian incursions into the territory, would have certainly triggered such a religious act. But a sincere fast would also include genuine repentance. That would not happen (v24). Lord, how can we not repent at so grave a time as we face today.**

* The Babylonian incursion into Palestine would have been today’s equivalent of Russia annexing Crimea and threatening Ukraine.

** Today our world order is shifting. America, though still fairly strong, is becoming less influential and more vulnerable to attacks on many fronts. China, Russia, Iran and N Korea (especially China) present significant threats to democracy and free societies. Anyone who can read the news has to be able to see that.

Things that are weakening the United States of America today are crime, immorality, illegal immigration, weak leadership, revolutionary ideologies, national disunity and vitriol, declining education, a weakening of the family, et all. These are the things that are making America more vulnerable to those hostile towards her way of life.

God of Compassion

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Heed God’s written word as his loving appeal to seek him (Jer 36:1-4) #GodOfMercy #Compassion #God’sWord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After 23 years of preaching (Jer 25:3), God instructs Jeremiah to write down every message he has preached to Israel and Judah. [That’s a lot of sermon notes]. So, Jeremiah dictated his messages to his secretary Baruch.

God explains why Jeremiah should write down his messages. “Perhaps the people of Judah will repent when they hear again [all the judgments against them]. Then I will be able to forgive their sins and wrongdoings“ (v3).

God continues to show mercy and compassion for sinful people. He is never willing for any to perish (2Pe 3:9). It is his desire for people to trust and follow after him and live an abundant life (Jhn 10:10). Lord, I am reminded that your compassions never fails us and they are new every morning (Lam 3:22,23).