Skip to main content

Jeremiah-47

"A Voice Crying Out in Egypt": A Devotional Study on Jeremiah 47​

Introduction​

Jeremiah 47 chronicles the prophet's message to the people of Babylon, who at that time had conquered Judah and were ruling over her people. In this chapter, we witness God's judgment against Egypt and learn vital lessons about God's faithfulness, prophetic warning, and trusting in His plans.

Section 1: A Voice Crying Out (Jeremiah 47:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: The prophet Jeremiah speaks, "Take the bundles of papyrus and flour sacks, and go to Babylon." (Jeremiah 47:1) God commands the prophet to take two objects to Babylon, serving as a visual representation of the situation. The papyrus, which bundled gifts or objects, depicts Babylon's promises to Pharaoh Hophra for protection. The flour sacks represent Egypt's presumption in thinking that Babylon's pledges would be to her advantage. The lesson here is that we too tend to cling to false promises and trust in the strength of human alliances, ignoring God's will. Today, reflect on the alliances you feel drawn to. Are they founded on God's Word?

Reflection Questions:

  • What are the alliances in your life that sacrifice God's promises for human one's?
  • Is it time to reflect on the importance of trusting in God's plans for your life?

Section 2: False Hopes and Faithless People (Jeremiah 47:3-4)​

Devotional Thought: Pharaoh Hophra, king of Egypt, reigns over people who refuse to listen to God's Word. Jeremiah declares that Hophra's trust in human alliances will lead to destruction. Today, we see this pattern in our society as well. Many ignore the profound truths that lead to strength in God, opting instead for quick-fixes that ultimately lead to false hopes and faithless people.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are there areas in your life that you are ignoring God's Word for immediate gratification or human alliances?
  • How can you prioritize trusting God's promises in your life instead?

Section 3: Judgment and Forgiveness (Jeremiah 47:5-11)​

Devotional Thought: God reveals His judgment against the Pharaoh of Egypt, who has placed his faith in an alliance with Babylon instead of holy revelations from God. Yet, while God pronounces judgment on Egypt, He also promises to forgive those who acknowledge Him. May we all have the humility to acknowledge God's authority and wisdom in our lives.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you allowing pride to hinder your acknowledgment of God's authority in your life?
  • What opportunities do you have to humbly acknowledge God's Word and pursue His forgiveness?

Section 4: Trusting in God's Plan (Jeremiah 47:12)​

Devotional Thought: Finally, Jeremiah declares that God is the bestower of peace and prosperity. Today, we too can trust in God's mercy and view the world through the lens of the One who holds all authority. As you reflect on this verse, consider the peace and prosperity that arise from honoring God's Word.

Reflection Questions:

  • How has following God's Word led you to greater peace and prosperity instead of false hopes and human alliances?
  • Is it time to shift your focus more fully towards the life-giving promises of God's Word?

Conclusion:​

Just as God revealed His Word through Jeremiah to Egypt, He continues to speak to us today. May we listen to His Word and follow His instructions rather than cling to fleeting human alliances and false hopes. Trust in the God who provides us with eternal, life-giving peace and prosperity.