Jeremiah-35
Hanging on to God's Promises: A Devotional Study on Jeremiah 35
Introduction
In the midst of darkness and chaos, Jeremiah provides a glimmer of hope. His prophecy in Jeremiah 35 speaks to the importance of holding onto God's promises in the face of opposition and uncertainty. Let's explore the spiritual insights and wisdom we can draw from this passage.
Section 1: The Prophecy (Jeremiah 35:1-19)
Devotional Thought: Jeremiah charges the men of Judah to abide by the covenant their ancestors made, declaring they would marry wives from any available pool and not take wives from the peoples of the land. The Levites who serve in the sanctuary listened to the word of the Lord and followed through, abiding by the covenant promises for generations. The story of the Levites' commitment serves as an example of clinging to God's promises, come what may. Today, let's reflect on the importance of holding onto God's promises through thick and thin.
Reflection Questions:
- Which of God's promises have you held onto through thick and thin?
- How did the Levites' abiding by God's promise for generations affect other aspects of their communal or spiritual life?
Section 2: The Inauguration (Jeremiah 35:20-25)
Devotional Thought: Jeremiah goes on to inaugurate a celebration, followed by the saddest events in Judah's history. His prophecy in Jeremiah 35 speaks to God's faithfulness amidst the most chaotic of circumstances. Today, let's reflect on the trustworthiness of God's promises, even in the midst of chaos and adversity.
Reflection Questions:
- How does God's faithfulness during the saddest events in Judah's history encourage you in your own life?
- In what ways can you trust God's promises during the chaos and adversity in your life?
Section 3: The Origin of the Covenant (Jeremiah 35:26-29)
Devotional Thought: Jeremiah travels to Anathoth, the birthplace of King David, tracing the covenant back to its origin. This story highlights the deep roots of the covenant and the significance of abiding by promises for generations. Today, let's reflect on the importance of a commitment to God's promises.
Reflection Questions:
- How does the deep roots of the covenant impact your understanding of the importance of keeping God's promises?
- In what ways can your commitment to God's promises impact future generations?
Section 4: The Blessing (Jeremiah 35:30-36)
Devotional Thought: Jeremiah closes Jeremiah 35 by reminding us that the blessing of the Lord will come to those who abide by His promises. Consider the relevance of this promise in your life. Today, let's reflect on the importance of holding onto God's promises in order to receive His blessing.
Reflection Questions:
- How do you define the blessing of the Lord?
- In what ways can you actively seek out the blessing of the Lord through your commitment to God's promises?
Conclusion:
As we conclude our devotional journey through Jeremiah 35, let's recognize the significance of holding onto God's promises. Jeremiah encourages us to persist in our commitment to God's promises, no matter the circumstances. May we cling to the promises of God, and in turn, experience His blessing in our lives.