One Heart And One Way
BRD REFLECTIONS
Jeremiah 32 and Psalm 36 (NIV)
(Alice Ling, Companions in Christ Facilitator, Discipleship & Nurture)
READ:
Jeremiah 32 and Psalm 36 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Psalm 36 begins by stating that the wicked has no fear of the Lord. This is evident through his words and actions where he flatters himself, speaks words that are full of trouble and deceit, acts foolishly, plots trouble, and does not reject evil. Yet God is the covenant-keeping God and in His steadfast love, He protects His people from the attacks of the wicked.
In Jeremiah 32, we see how wicked and foolish the children of Israel and Judah have become. They have persistently disobeyed God’s instructions, defiantly turned away from God and blatantly defiled God’s temple. They have provoked God to great wrath and the besieged city of Jerusalem will soon be captured by Babylon.
God revealed to Jeremiah that his cousin, Hanamel, will visit him and ask him to buy his land. It happened as God said and Jeremiah obeyed by buying the land though it seemed irrational with the impending exile. Jeremiah acknowledged that nothing is too difficult for the omnipotent God and declares that God’s steadfast love has been shown to thousands through generations.
God promises in verses 38 and 39: 38 And they shall be my people, and I will be their God. 39 I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear me forever, for their own good and the good of their children after them.
God assures that He will restore His people’s fortunes and they will return to the land where fields will be bought and sold again.
APPLY:
Like the Psalmist, I have encountered wicked people. Their words have wounded me deeply and their foolish actions have negatively impacted me. Yet I take heart knowing God has been faithful and I take comfort knowing that I dwell in safety because God protects His own. I rejoice in God’s steadfast love.
DO:
I am reminded that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10) and that the duty of man is to “Fear God and keep his commandments” (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
I will endeavour to spend time studying God’s Word to ensure that I stay close to God and obey His instructions. May the Holy Spirit help me to keep my words and actions in check and live my life as one of God’s people.
PRAY:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your steadfast love that never ceases and Your mercies that never come to an end. Unite my heart with Your people to love You and serve You together with ONE HEART and to walk together in ONE WAY in reverent obedience of Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
