Pray to persevere to understand God’s word (Ezk 1:13,14;1Pe 2:2). #PersistInGodsWord #CallUponGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Ezekiel further elaborates on the living beings he saw in vv4-7, as if they were bright coals of fire or brilliant, burning torches. He saw what seemed like lighting, flashing back-and-forth between the beings. The reference to coals of fire, burning torches and lightening likely refer to the message of judgment of God on Judah that Ezekiel will soon deliver.
The 21st century observer might look at this vision as “sci-fi.“ Who could have imagined such a thing hundreds of centuries ago (some 600 years before Christ)? Yet, there is still more of this vision to unpack.
I’m trying hard not to get lost in the weeds. I’m trying to just imagine the sheer power and majesty of God revealed here. Lord, I pray for understanding and the perseverance needed to press into this vision and message of Ezekiel.
Look through the symbolism of God’s word and see God (Ezk 1:4-6).
Lord, Show Us your Glory
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Of first note in Ezekiel‘s vision are the four living beings. They appear out of the whirlwind of the dark clouds. Chapter 10:3ff refers to these beings as cherubim. There are many views on the nature and character of cherubim. One thing seems certain, cherubs are not childlike beings. They are fiercely iconic beings. We see them guarding the tree of life in Genesis 3:24. We see them covering the ark of the covenant in Exodus 25:17–20. They support the throne of God (e.g. Psm 80:1; 2Sa 22:10-14; 1Ch 28:18).
We are told in Hebrews 8:5,6 that the Tabernacle of was a copy, a resemblance of the heavenly reality. Ezekiel‘s vision seems to be of the actual enthronement of God riding on cherubim. Whether these are a special class of angels is uncertain. What is certain is what they symbolize. The cherubim in Ezekiel‘s vision points us to the wisdom, power and glory of God; to the mercy, righteousness, and grace of God. Lord, may I not get stuck in the imagery of Ezekiel, but see through the imagery to catch a vision of who you are.
Give thanks for the intentional presence of God (Ezk 1:4). #GodsGlory #Worship
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The Life Application Study Bible notes on this verse point to the fact that Ezekiel was far away from the Temple in Jerusalem. It was a physical symbol of God‘s presence with his people (he was a captive in Babylon).
The the ominous dark cloud, lightning flashing, brilliant light, and appearance of fire, glowing, like burnish metal in the center of the cloud, revealed God’s very presence with him. He was, as I am, reminded that God rides with us everywhere. No matter where we find ourselves physically or spiritually, God is present.
Lord, I thank you for your ever present attention to me.* This old sentry is never far from your grasp (v3; 2:9; 3:14,22; 8:3).
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* God makes his presence known through his word, his indwelling Holy Spirit and the presence of godly friends around me.
Come to, see the glory of God in Christ (Ezk 1:4; John 1:14). #GodsGlory #Worship
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Ezekiel‘s visionary experience begins as a natural phenomenon – a dark, ominous desert storm out of the north (noteworthy is that in the north are the Caldeans, the Babylonians coming to judge Jerusalem). The cloud is accompanied by brilliant flashes of lightening. The natural phenomenon turns into a supra-natural, a spiritual experience.
Of note is the appearance of what looks like fire inside the dark cloud. At the center of the fire was what looked like burnished metal (used only here and and Ezk 1:27; 8:2). Ezekiel 1:28. & 3:23 alludes to this descriptive appearance as the glory of God.
I asked myself the question, “Is it possible for men today to see the glory of God?” Lord, I have seen your glory – Jesus has revealed your glory in terms all men may understand (John 1:14).
Follow through on your vows/promises made to God (Jer 34:12-17). #DoWhatYouSay #FollowThroughMatters #MeanWhatYouSay
Lion of Judah
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
If anyone should be grateful for their freedom, it should be these old testament Hebrews. God reminds them that he made a covenant with their ancestors who were slaves in Egypt. He would free them…which he did. At that time he told them they must never hold a fellow Hebrew as a slave for longer than six years. Then they must free them.*
Lion of Judah
Here, the people pledged to return to that covenant (vv8-11). They released all their countrymen slaves, but then immediately went back on their pledge and re-enslaved them. I think that nothing raises the ire of God more than lying to him. For this, God WILL carry out his pledge to judge Judah. Lord, may my heart always keep covenant promises with you.
When you say, “Yes“ to God, follow through (Jer 34:8-11). #DoWhatYouSay #FollowThroughMatters #MeanWhatYouSay
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Just prior to the Babylonian conquest of Judah, the king, Zedekiah, has a change of heart about fellow Hebrew slaves in the land. His motivation is unknown, but he makes a covenant with the people to follow the Hebrew law (ignored for hundred of years) and free their countrymen slaves (Exo 21:1–6; Lev 25:39–43; Deu 15:12–15).
The people obeyed, but then later reneged and brought their fellow Hebrews back into bondage.* It is obvious that Zedekiah and the people were not wholeheartedly following God‘s commands to them; more evidence of their coming judgment. Lord, may my oft wayward heart willingly follow your loving commands.
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* Speaking to unbelieving Jews again in the New Testament, Jesus speaks a parable to this same effect in Mat 21:28-32. If you tell God, “Yes”, just do what you say.
Remain open to the conviction of God‘s Holy Spirit (1Jhn 5:16,17).
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
“The sin unto death.“ Here is another prickly topic in Scripture. What is the sin unto death? There is no consensus among Bible commentators. There are instances in Scripture where such a sin may have been committed (e.g., 1Co 11:27–30; Mrk 3:29; Heb 6:4–6).
[I am personally acquainted with an example where a beloved sister in Christ found herself deeply involved in a sin. She rejected all attempts to change course. Her life was taken suddenly.]
Since these examples all differ, I think it is best to leave such judgment up to God. The role of brothers and sisters in Christ is to pray for one another and lovingly challenge one another to godly living (Heb 3:12-15). Lord, thank you for giving me the opportunity to change the direction of my life (see Window of Opportunity; my story, this blog).
Trust Christ’s sacrifice for all sin and forgiveness (1Jn 2:1,2). #ChristOurAdvocate
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The aged apostle John addresses his readers fondly, as a loving father would to his children. Of course his desire is that they not sin. What father would not wish that for his children? But he knows also that no one is immune to sin.
So, John wants his readers to know that when sin does enter into a life, there is hope. Jesus Christ advocates for us based on his death sacrifice for sin. His defense never rests. Our God hears his plea and forgives all sin based on Christ’s righteousness in us (1Co 1:30; 2Co 5:21). Lord, I may trust my eternal counselor who is my advocate with God.
Trust God to exact perfect judgment on his people’s oppressors (Jer 51:50-58). #TorchedAndBurned #WagesOfSin #Judgment #BabylonHasFallen
Babylon has fallen
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
As Jeremiah concludes his writing of the Scroll to the Hebrew captives in Babylon, he acknowledges their shame and discouragement for the desecration of the Temple. “Yes, but;” the Lord reminds them again that he will destroy Babylon, her God (v52), her military (V56), her officers, counselors, captains and warriors (v57). The Lord will repay in full.
Babylon remains today
All the mighty of Babylon will be put to sleep, never wake up again. The builders of the great city of Babylon and its fortresses will be mere kindling. The King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will torch and burn her to the ground. Lord, I rely upon you to deliver your people and repay the oppressors of your people fully for their sin.*
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* The wages of sin is eternal death, destruction and separation from God, but the gift of God is eternal life, deliverance from death, destruction and separation from God” (Rom 6:23).
May God’s sentries on the American wall “Stand Faithfully, Watch Vigilantly, Pray Earnestly, Speak/Act Boldly” to warn of approaching hoofbeats (Jer 51:45-50). #ApprochingHoofbeats #StormWarning
APPROACHING HOOFBEATS
Morning Watch: Extended
It would be foolish to declare the words of Jeremiah 51:45-50 as prophecy over America. That is not the context. However, it would also be foolish not to take a lesson from history. Especially when I see these very same things happening in America. It is a wake up call!!!
This is what the sentry on the wall, the American wall, ought to be doing – pointing to the signs of God’s impending judgment and crying out a warning of the approaching hoofbeats of an overwhelming adversary being sent by God himself.
In 2024 is America headed for judgment? There are signs to be read:
1. Rumors arise every year of growing adversarial threats. (China, Russia, North Korea, Iran).
2. There is violence and lawlessness in our streets, judicial oversight is falling apart.
3. Leaders in government fight against each other (interagency fighting, federal and state governments fighting, congressional fighting).
4. America will certainly see her great idols fall (great institutions of science, education, her military complex, financial markets, false religions, et.al).
5. I would humbly add to this list the demise of the family unit and the breakdown of morality.
It is the ultimate hubristic and godless mind that could think such a society could survive.
Consider the words of Christ who said, “Fools, you can read signs of weather, but you don’t know how to interpret the present times” (Luke 12:56). You don’t have to be a prophet to read the signs of our times.
The sentry on the wall has standing orders: Stand Faithfully, Watch Vigilantly, Pray Earnestly, Speak/Act Boldly (ISA 62:6; NEH 4:16-18;Hos 8:1-4).
But I don’t come to this passage with some pessimistic fatalism. I come to this passage with some excitement about the future. May we see either a GREAT AWAKENING that sweeps thousands into the Kingdom of a God and/or a GREAT EXIT in the second coming of Christ.
Put your hope in God in time of national troubles (Jer 51:45-50). #Homeland #SignsOfTheTimes
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
In this prophecy of the fall of Babylon, the Lord tells the people there will be signs of Babylon’s breaking apart. God says to his people, “Don’t panic or be afraid, but remain confident. Prepare to exit. Save yourselves from God’s fierce judgment.” Read the signs and prepare.
Here are the signs of the coming judgment (America be alert): there will be rumors of approaching enemy forces (year after year, rumors grow). There will be violence in the land. Leaders fight against each other. Judgment has begun on this prideful land of Babylon. You of the remnant, remember the Lord and think of your Homeland.
Are you prepared to exit this earth? Have you settled the question of your eternal destiny? Have you trusted Christ as savior? Is your mind focused on the things of Christ? Father, I am reminded in the face of national troubles to stay focused on you my mission and my eternal Homeland.
Seek God for deliverance; trust not your own strength (Jer 51:34-44). #GodOurAvenger
All that is left of Babylon’s temple to her God, Bel
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Judah’s complaint of Babylon’s overwhelming violence against them is taken up by God. He is Judah’s defense, Babylon’s judge; her fate is sealed, Judah is avenged. The cup of God’s judgment will put Babylon into a deep sleep from which she will never awaken. She is finished. Like crashing waves of the sea demolishes sandcastles on the beach (my interp), Babylon is gone.
Babylon’s God Bel is demolished and in her last gasp of life, she will vomit out all the those she has consumed (all the people are freed from her captivity). She will never again be hailed, but only derided. God hears our complaint and takes vengeance on arrogant oppressors in his way, in his time. But God delivers his own. Lord, I take cover in your avenging grace and put no stock in my own strength.
Trust God to carry out his every plan in our lives and for the nations (Jer 51:27-33). #God’sPlan
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jeremiah continues God’s call to the nations that will rise up against Babylon. The hammer of judgment God used to discipline his people will itself be hammered and broken. All the nations mentioned here were war-like people. God will use them to lay waste to Babylon, deliver his people.
Jeremiah prophesies that all the mighty warriors of Babylon will retreat for cover; offer no resistance. When God’s people realize that Babylon being trampled, they will then know that God’s harvest of judgment had arrived (the 70 year captivity will be over). Lord, except for repentance, there is no rolling back your plan for our lives nor the nations.
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.
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 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.
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.
Come quickly seeking grace and forgiveness (Jer 50:21–32).#TurnNowToGod #Repent
God’s Hammer, Babylon, Will Be Crushed
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).
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.
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.
“Jeremiah‘s prophecy [Chs 50 & 51] looked beyond the destruction of Babylon in 539 BC to an eschatological destruction that will reverse the fortunes of Israel and Judah. Possibly this prophecy represents a blending of the near and the far. That is, the fall of Babylon and the return of the captives under Zerubbabel [Ezra 2:2; Neh. 7:7; 12:1 ] merged in the prophetic picture with the still future destruction of Babylon and the final restoration of Israel and Judah.
“The destruction of Babylon will be the climax of God‘s judgment on the gentile powers that have oppressed his people and will open the way for the fulfilling of God‘s promises to Israel. Other portions of scripture also point to still future rebuilding of Israel and destruction of Babylon (CF. Zec 5:5-11; Rev Chs 17 & 19). The city of Babylon will be rebuilt only to be destroyed at the end of the tribulation before Christ returns to establish his millennial reign.*
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This blog author has researched the rebuilding of Babylon. It is interesting to note that the ancient city of Babylon rests approximately 55 miles south of Baghdad, Iraq. There is an active movement afoot today to rebuild the city of Babylon. It is, in some measure, designed to attract tourists. But there are certainly more spiritual forces at work here than meet the eye.
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* Walvoord & Zuck. The Bible Knowledge Commentary of the Old Testament. Victor Books, 1985), 1199.
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.).
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* Walvoord & Zuck. The Bible Knowledge Commentary of the Old Testament. Victor Books, 1985), 1199.
Give praise to God as the supreme power of the universe (Jer 50:1–3). #Omnipotence #Omniscience
Sovereign 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.
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.
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.
Exercise godly wisdom in the heat of confrontation (Jer 28:1-11). #KnowWhenToHold’em #ShowRestraint #SeekGodlyWisdom
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Another prophet in Judah, Hananiah, confronted Jeremiah publicly in the Temple and before the priests and people. It was dramatic. Hananiah prophesied that the “yoke“ (27:2) of Babylon on the people of God would be removed within two years. All the Temple treasures and people in exile would be returned. Jeremiah had prophesied a 70 year exile (29:10).
To further dramatize his prediction, Hananiah removed the yoke on Jeremiah‘s neck and broke it into pieces. Jeremiah in his own dramatic way and waiting on God’s answer, turned and walked out of the Temple. How many times have I been in a confrontation and pushed back hard “knowing“ that “I” was right; later regretting my words/actions?
Lord, may I exercise godly wisdom in the heat of confrontation. “I got to know when to hold’em..fold’em.”
May we know as a people the joy of the full restoration of God (Jer 27:22). #God’sRestoration #RestorationPromise
RESTORED!
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.
Serve God with unmitigated devotion (Jer 27:12–15). #TrustGod #TruthSpeak #YIELDtoGod #Steadfast
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jeremiah speaks directly to his king (Zedekiah): 1) yield to Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Do this and you will live; 2) do not listen to the false prophets. They prophesy a false hope for a quick resolution to the threat of the Babylonian take over.
Jeremiah says, “Yield to the yoke of Babylon and live, or face annihilation“. Jeremiah preached faithfully some harsh prophecy. I am moved at the tenacity, Integrity and intensity of Jeremiah‘s devotion to speak the truth in his prophetic ministry. Lord, may I be so moved as Jeremiah with such devotion to your call in my life.
I pray that America might discern and listen to those who speak the truth of God’s word.
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
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* It’s possible that Jeremiah may have sent a YOKE home with each ambassador to reinforce the message to surrender to Babylon.
The Prayer Sentry 