Today’s passage: Jeremiah 45:1-46:28
Helpful thoughts:
- Baruch had written God’s message for Jeremiah and read it to the leaders of Judah in chapter 36.
- Baruch’s plans and dreams were not compatible with God’s sovereign plan in Judah. He needed to be encouraged and to rest in God’s will.
- Chapter 46 begins a series of judgments which God had promised on the nations surrounding Israel/Judah. Egypt is first.
- The Pharaohs, gods, and mighty men of Egypt are no match for the Lord.
- God promises judgment on the nations. But, to Israel, He promises to never make an end of them. This was His gracious choice.
Questions to consider:
- Why might we feel badly for Baruch? What do we often want God to do concerning our plans? Why must we hold them with an open hand? What do we know about the attributes of God that helps us to adjust to changes with peace?
- Why is it right for the nations of the earth (And not just Israel) to answer to God as judge? What were some of Egypt’s sins against Him?
- Is Israel better than the rest of the nations of the earth in their own right? Are the people of the church by nature worth more than others in the world? How does this produce humility and gratitude in us which leads to joyful service (Ephesians 2:8-10)?