A Warrior’s Journey Home
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
In Memory of my Dad, Ron Waddell
I was the only one in the room when my dad passed away. I think he wanted it that way. You see, the day before, he’d had a trial run. He’d called my brother Ronnie and me to his side, taking our wrists. (He made sure it was our wrists, not our hands.)
By the words he said, with broken speech, we knew he was dying. Yet he wanted this moment to be a ceremony of sorts. We told him we’d take care of each other. We told him we loved him and were thankful he was our dad. We told him that it was alright to go to Jesus and to give our Papa a hug from us. (Our grandpa and Dad were good friends.) There were a lot of snotty tears (at least on my part).
Then, Dad released our wrists, and our hands dropped to the bed. His own hands went limp. His head dropped down. I gasped, and before I could wonder if that was the end, he lifted his head.
“Boo, I’m not dead yet. I still got two more days.” What? Did Dad just pull a prank on us from his deathbed? Oh, yes, he did. And he got us good! And for the rest of the day, he kept repeating, “Boo,” as if rubbing it in.
Still, I’m pretty sure my brother and I failed that test run. Dad didn’t like the drama or fuss.
Over the next day and a half, there were times Dad was with us. Other times, he was looking into eternity. Still, other times, he was back in Vietnam, seeing the horror replay.
The futile shouts of warnings to friends he’d lost would burst from his lips. Cries of the horror of what he’d experienced escaped, too. This gave me glimpses of what he’d carried all those years. He was just a young man when he’d experienced things no person should have to. More than that, he’d fought for his life and continued fighting for it every day since. I see that now.
Even though I’ve interviewed hundreds of veterans, Dad never told me his stories. I’d ask, and he’d refused. “You don’t want to hear that,” he’d say. We both knew he didn’t want to talk about it.
I almost pictured his stories as a tangled ball of yarn pushed down deep. To attempt to pull out one story thread would pull out a tangled mess of trauma he didn’t want to face. Yet, for many years, I believed that the reason he’d kept the conversation at surface level was our lack of closeness. I now realize it was an act of love. He didn’t want to risk letting that pain out. He never wanted to be a bother to us kids. And I’m so proud of him.
So many Vietnam veterans are homeless. PTSD often led many Vietnam veterans to substance abuse. Lack of transferable skills and discrimination due to the public opposition to the Vietnam War made it hard for many to find work.
Yet my dad worked as a police officer until he retired. He took care of us kids. He always told us he loved us. He was kind to others and always loved pulling pranks and telling a good joke. Pretty darn impressive for a guy who survived such horror and battled cancer for decades.
This leads me back to when Dad passed from this life to the next. Even though he’d told me he knew the Lord and had peace in dying, his journey was grueling. The sounds of his labored breathing were agonizing. My brother and I would often take shifts being with him to pull ourselves together and get some rest.
Ronnie and his wife Sharla had just gone for a walk, and I was sitting across the room in a chair. Then suddenly, I realized the labored breaths had quieted. I ran to his side and held Dad’s hand as he took his last three or four soft breaths. I told him I loved him and was thankful he could now have peace in Jesus’ arms. I imagined the pain and trauma being lifted off his shoulders. I told him I would care for my brother—which I know was one of Dad’s biggest concerns. And then all was still.
Those three days in the hospital room brought me more connection with my dad than the last thirty years. We had some visits and talked on the phone, but we didn’t have the close connection I desired. Now I know why he didn’t go deeper. He couldn’t. That tangled ball of pain and trauma blocked off so much. Yet he gave us all he could and made us smile until the end. Thank you, Dad. I love you. We will follow you … in just a little while.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
July 29
2 Kings 21
2 Kings 22:1-2
2 Chronicles 33
2 Chronicles 34:1-7
Jeremiah 1
Jeremiah 2:1-22
Embracing God’s Call
at Any Age
Introduction: The Early Days of Kings and Prophets
Today’s passage highlights two individuals who embraced God’s calling from a young age, despite the challenges and cultural pressures they faced. We dive into the stories of King Josiah and the prophet Jeremiah, understanding their journeys, struggles, and triumphs as young servants of God.
The Wicked Reign of King Manasseh
A Legacy of Idolatry and Sin
King Manasseh of Judah ascended to the throne at a young age and ruled for 55 years. His reign was marked by evil acts, including worshipping foreign gods, practicing idolatry, and even sacrificing his sons in the fire. He led the people of Judah astray, rebuilding pagan altars and committing abominations that displeased the Lord. The Bible records in 2 Kings 21:9, “But the people refused to listen, and Manasseh led them to do even more evil than the pagan nations that the LORD had destroyed when the people of Israel entered the land.”
God’s Judgment and Manasseh’s Repentance
Due to his refusal to repent, Manasseh was captured by the Assyrians and taken as a prisoner to Babylon. While in captivity, he sought the Lord and sincerely humbled himself. As 2 Chronicles 33:12-13 states, “But while in deep distress, Manasseh sought the LORD his God and sincerely humbled himself before the God of his ancestors. And when he prayed, the LORD listened to him and was moved by his request. So the LORD brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh finally realized that the LORD alone is God!”
The Rise of King Josiah: A Young King with a Heart for God
Josiah’s Righteous Reforms
Josiah became king at just eight years old and reigned for 31 years. Unlike his predecessors, he did what was pleasing in the Lord’s sight, following the example of his ancestor David. Josiah sought God wholeheartedly, purifying Jerusalem and Judah by destroying pagan shrines, carved idols, and altars dedicated to foreign gods. His courage to go against the cultural norms of his time demonstrated his deep commitment to God.
Jeremiah: The Young Prophet with a Mighty Call
God’s Call and Jeremiah’s Reluctance
Jeremiah, known as the weeping prophet, was called by God to deliver His messages to a rebellious nation. Despite his initial reluctance, citing his youth as an excuse, God reassured him in Jeremiah 1:7-8, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the LORD.”
Standing Strong in the Face of Persecution
Jeremiah endured relentless persecution but remained steadfast in his mission. God’s assurance, “For see, today I have made you strong, like a fortified city, like an iron pillar. For I am with you and I will take care of you,” fortified Jeremiah to stand firm against opposition and fulfill God’s calling.
Word of the Day: Young – Embracing God’s Call at Any Age
Today’s word, young, signifies being in the early stage of life, growth, or development. We read about Josiah, who became king at eight, and Jeremiah, who felt too young to be a prophet. Despite their youth, both were used mightily by God, reminding us that age is no barrier to fulfilling God’s purposes.
Personal Takeaway: God’s Call is Timeless
We often find ourselves making excuses for why we can’t follow God’s call, but Josiah and Jeremiah show us that age is never an excuse. God’s plans and callings are not limited by how old we are. Josiah’s determination to follow God wholeheartedly and Jeremiah’s unwavering commitment despite persecution highlight the impact one person can make when they choose to obey God.
God doesn’t look for worthy people to do His work; He finds willing ones. Jeremiah’s success was dependent on God’s strength and presence. He had a personal encounter with the Lord and grew up knowing God’s Word, drawing from the wisdom of previous prophets.
Application: Learning from the Young and the Wise
No matter our age, we should be open to learning from those who have gone before us, seeking their counsel and wisdom as we grow in faith and knowledge. Mentors, both in real life and through the legacy of past Christ-followers like Catherine Marshall and Corrie ten Boom, can guide us in our spiritual journey.
Jeremiah 1:5 is a beautiful reminder of God’s intentional design for each of us: “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” God’s plans for us are unique and purposeful, regardless of our age or circumstances.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Calling Today
Let Josiah and Jeremiah’s stories inspire you to embrace God’s calling for your life, no matter how young or old you are. Trust that He has equipped you with everything you need to fulfill His purposes.
July 30
Jeremiah 2:23-37
Jeremiah 3-4
Jeremiah 5:1-19
Divine Providence
Introduction: The Spiritual Condition of Judah
In today’s reading, we explore the powerful metaphors and messages delivered by the prophet Jeremiah to illustrate Judah’s spiritual condition. Jeremiah uses vivid imagery to depict the nation’s unfaithfulness and God’s call for repentance and restoration.
Judah’s Unfaithfulness: A Young Camel in Heat
Unbridled Pursuit of Idolatry
Jeremiah compares Judah’s actions to a young female camel in heat, running wildly in her pursuit of a mate. This imagery powerfully captures Judah’s unfaithfulness and their pursuit of false gods, despite God’s enduring love and care. In their idolatry, they have abandoned the true source of living water.
God’s Call for Repentance
In Jeremiah 3, the prophet continues his message, likening Judah’s unfaithfulness to an adulterous wife who has betrayed her husband. Despite their transgressions, God offers forgiveness and calls His people to return to Him. This passage emphasizes God’s longing for reconciliation and restoration if Judah would only turn away from their sinful ways.
Plowing Up the Hard Ground: A Call for Heart Change
Surrendering Pride and Power
God asks the people of Judah to “plow up the hard ground of your hearts.” He urges them to surrender their pride, change their hearts, and avoid His unquenchable anger due to their sins. God desires pure hearts, not mere acts of repentance.
The Image of Circumcision
Jeremiah uses the image of circumcision, not of the flesh, but of the heart. He calls Judah to remove the foreskins of their hearts, symbolizing a covenant dedication to the Lord. God’s problem with their sins goes beyond actions; it is rooted in the condition of their hearts.
The Heavy Burden of Jeremiah’s Prophecy
A Poetic Picture of Devastation
Jeremiah’s messages are heavy, and his heart aches with the weight of the words he must deliver. He depicts the coming destruction as a reversal of creation, turning the earth into a desolate wasteland. The heavens mourn, and God’s decree against His people is unwavering.
The Consequences of Refusing to Repent
Jeremiah boldly questions why the people of Jerusalem dress in finery when destruction looms. Their refusal to repent has led to their downfall, and God promises to bring a distant nation against them, bringing devastation. Yet, even in His judgment, God promises not to completely destroy His people, highlighting His mercy.
Word of the Day: Providence – Trusting in God’s Divine Guidance
Today’s word, Providence, refers to divine guidance, care, and the sustaining power of God over human destiny. It reminds us that God’s ways are mysterious, and His sovereignty governs all aspects of life.
Personal Takeaway: Embracing God’s Sovereignty
Jeremiah 2:29 resonates deeply: “Why do you accuse me of doing wrong? You are the ones who have rebelled,” says the LORD. This verse encourages us to believe in God’s compassion and sovereignty during life’s trials. Even when we don’t understand, we can trust in God’s providence.
Providence signifies that God is actively involved in our lives. We must accept the mystery of faith, trusting that He is a kind and merciful Father. God’s love allows us the freedom to choose, and even in suffering, He offers comfort and strength.
Jesus, who suffered and understands our humanity, transforms the worst situations into beauty and redemption. Instead of questioning God’s fairness, let’s entrust Him with our worries and concerns, believing in His unfathomable love and sovereignty.
Conclusion: Embrace God’s Providence Today
Let the metaphors and messages of Jeremiah inspire you to embrace God’s call for your life. Trust in His providence, knowing that His guidance and care are always with us, even in the darkest times. Remember, it’s not about being worthy but being willing to say, “Here I am, Lord, send me.”
July 31
Jeremiah 5:20-31
Jeremiah 6
2 Kings 22:3-20
2 Chronicles 34:8-28
Standing at the Crossroads – Choosing God’s Path
Introduction: The Spiritual Condition of Judah
In today’s reading, we delve into the powerful metaphors and messages delivered by the prophet Jeremiah to illustrate Judah’s spiritual condition. Jeremiah accuses the nation of idolatry, dishonesty, and injustice, lamenting that even religious leaders deceive and mislead. Jeremiah 5:20 says, “Your iniquities have turned these away, and your sins have kept good from you.”
Judah’s Unfaithfulness: A Young Camel in Heat
Jeremiah compares Judah’s actions to a young female camel in heat, running wildly in her pursuit of a mate. This imagery captures Judah’s unfaithfulness and their pursuit of false gods, despite God’s enduring love and care. In their idolatry, they have abandoned the true source of living water.
God’s Call for Repentance
In Jeremiah 6, God vividly describes the imminent invasion by a ferocious enemy if Judah does not repent. The prophet begs the people to return to righteousness, but they stubbornly ignore his warnings. Jeremiah 6:16 states, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.'”
The Reign of King Josiah: A Return to Righteousness
This passage also describes the reign of youthful King Josiah of Judah. In his eighteenth year, Josiah rebuilds the Lord’s temple, where Hilkiah, the high priest, finds the Book of the Law. Deeply moved, Josiah humbles himself before God and abolishes all idolatry and pagan worship. God forgives Josiah and promises to delay Judah’s doom until after his death.
Word of the Day: Crossroads
Crossroads: an intersection of two or more roads; a point at which a crucial decision must be made that will have far-reaching consequences.
Life’s crossroads force us to make important choices. Jeremiah’s warning to Judah and King Josiah’s response teach us valuable lessons.
The Danger of Going Our Own Way
Like Judah, we can be tempted to follow our inclinations and worldly influences. Jeremiah warns that this path can lead to spiritual disaster. Rejecting God and embracing evil makes us vulnerable to the consequences of our actions.
Real Repentance
King Josiah’s story inspires hope and redemption. After discovering God’s Law, Josiah repents, illustrating that genuine repentance can always lead us back to God. When we confess and repent, God forgives and guides us.
2 Kings 22:19 says, “You were sorry and humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I said against this city and its people—that this land would be cursed and become desolate. You tore your clothing in despair and wept before me in repentance. And I have indeed heard you, says the LORD.”
Choosing God’s Way
Choosing God’s way in a world filled with rebellion and wickedness can be challenging. Josiah’s reform shows that even in the midst of massive sin, one person’s choice to follow God can make a significant difference. We can impact the world by living our faith and leading by example.
Experience God’s Mercy
We may see the results of past decisions or collective rebellion, but Josiah’s tale shows that God’s mercy is always present. God’s mercy can delay or lessen judgment. Sincere repentance brings God’s forgiveness and grace, affecting our lives and those around us.
Psalm 51:17, “The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.”
Personal Takeaway:
When we are standing at a crossroads, may we remember that God has divine guidance, care, and authority over all elements of existence. It reminds us that God’s ways are mysterious and His sovereignty governs all aspects of life. Even when we don’t understand, we can trust in God’s providence.
Let’s embrace God’s call for our lives and choose His path, knowing that His guidance and care are always with us, even in the darkest times.
August 1
2 Kings 23
2 Chronicles 34:29-33
2 Chronicles 35:1-19
Nahum 1-3
The Journey of Repentance
Yesterday, we ended our story with King Josiah repenting before God, recognizing how far the people had strayed. Josiah’s mission was clear: he read the entire Book of the Covenant to the people and undertook a rigorous cleanup of idolatry from the Temple and Judah. Josiah’s heartfelt repentance and reformation were unprecedented, and his actions serve as a powerful lesson on the importance of genuine repentance.
The Zeal of King Josiah
Josiah’s mission was to restore true worship in Judah. He instructed Hilkiah, the high priest, to remove all articles used to worship Baal, Asherah, and other false gods from the Lord’s Temple. He eradicated idolatrous priests and demolished the Asherah poles and living quarters of shrine prostitutes. Josiah’s reforms were thorough, ensuring that nothing defiled the living God remained. This renewal led to a return to celebrating the Passover, with offerings, musicians, gatekeepers, and priests in their rightful places. Throughout Josiah’s reign, the people of Judah remained faithful to the Lord with their whole hearts and souls.
The Burden of Nahum
Nahum’s prophecies against Nineveh serve as a sobering reminder of God’s justice. Nahum’s name means “comforter,” and his message provided comfort to God’s people by announcing the downfall of their oppressor, Assyria. The book of Nahum is a collection of poems that vividly describe the impending destruction of Nineveh. Nahum 1:7-8 reminds us of God’s dual nature: “The LORD is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him. But he will sweep away his enemies in an overwhelming flood. He will pursue his foes into the darkness of night.”
Word of the Day: Repentance
Repentance: the action of repenting; sincere regret or remorse.
Repentance typically involves:
- An admission of guilt for committing a wrong or omitting to do the right thing.
- A promise or resolve not to repeat the offense.
- An attempt to make restitution for the wrong or to reverse its harmful effects where possible.
The Importance of True Repentance
Josiah gives us a beautiful example of repentance, going beyond his predecessors by not only worshipping God but also removing all high places of idol worship. His genuine repentance and commitment to God led to a period of renewed faithfulness in Judah.
Personal responsibility for our actions and seeking forgiveness are crucial. True repentance requires more than just feeling sorry for mistakes; it demands a genuine desire to change and seek God’s guidance.
Nahum’s prophecies also highlight the importance of repentance. His message, while pronouncing judgment, also brings comfort in knowing that God is just and will not let evil prevail indefinitely.
Application #1: A Personal Call to Repentance
Josiah’s actions encourage us to take personal responsibility for our sins and seek God’s forgiveness earnestly. Through genuine repentance, we can experience the transformative power of God’s love and grace in our lives.
Nahum 1:15 says, “Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace! Celebrate your festivals, Judah, and fulfill your vows. No more will the wicked invade you; they will be completely destroyed.” This message of repentance is a comfort and needs to be shared with others. No matter how far we have strayed, God’s arms are always open to receive us when we come back to Him with a repentant heart.
Application #2: Building a Life of Repentance
As we read God’s Word each day and engage with the Daily Bible Podcast, we are building our resolve to hear from Him, understand His words, and recognize the depth of our sins. This understanding should lead us to repentance and a closer relationship with God. Without genuine repentance, our spiritual practices are incomplete.
1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Repentance is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with God.
August 2
Habakkuk 1-3
Zephaniah 1
Zephaniah 2:1-7
Cling to God
Grappling with Faith in Turbulent Times
Habakkuk and Zephaniah both offer profound lessons on faith and repentance during times of spiritual decline and impending judgment. These prophets lived during King Josiah’s time, witnessing both revival and spiritual decay. Their messages resonate deeply, calling us to cling to God amidst uncertainty.
Habakkuk: Embracing God Through Lament
Habakkuk’s name, derived from the Hebrew verb “embrace,” signifies his journey of clinging to God through difficult questions and complaints. Written as poems of lament, Habakkuk engages in a dialogue with God, questioning the apparent injustice and wickedness in the land.
Habakkuk 1:2: “How long, O LORD, must I call for help? But you do not listen! ‘Violence is everywhere!’ I cry, but you do not come to save.”
God responds by revealing that He is raising the Babylonians as instruments of judgment. Habakkuk is instructed to wait patiently for God’s appointed time, trusting in His sovereignty.
Habakkuk 2:1: “I will climb up to my watchtower and stand at my guardpost. There I will wait to see what the LORD says and how he will answer my complaint.”
Five Woes of Habakkuk
Habakkuk’s complaints are summed up in five woes against unjust economic practices, slave labor, misuse of alcohol, filthy idolatry, and greed. Yet, God assures that He will bring down the Babylons of this world. As His people, we must cling to God like Habakkuk did:
Habakkuk 3:2: “I have heard all about you, LORD. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger, remember your mercy.”
Despite impending hardships, Habakkuk finds strength and joy in the Lord, his salvation.
Zephaniah: A Call to Repentance
Zephaniah, a contemporary of Josiah, delivers harsh words to Judah, foretelling God’s sweeping judgment due to their idolatry and unfaithfulness. He emphasizes the necessity of repentance:
Zephaniah 1:18: “Neither their silver nor their gold will be able to save them on the day of the Lord’s wrath. In the fire of his jealousy the whole earth will be consumed, for he will make a sudden end of all who live on the earth.”
Zephaniah’s message is clear: repent while there is still time. Seek the Lord, do what is right, and live humbly.
Word of the Day: Cling
Cling: hold on tightly to.
Application: Embracing Faith and Repentance
Reading Habakkuk and Zephaniah, we see a clear message for today. Where is our pride? On ourselves, our wealth, or our status? Both prophets warn against trusting in material security.
Habakkuk 2:4: “Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.”
This is echoed in the New Testament:
Romans 1:17: “This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight … ‘It is through faith that a righteous person has life.’”
Galatians 3:11: “So it is clear that no one can be made right with God by trying to keep the law. For the Scriptures say, ‘It is through faith that a righteous person has life.’”
Who or what do we cling to? Just as a child clings to a parent for security and guidance, we are called to cling to God, finding our security and guidance in Him.
August 3
Zephaniah 2:8-15
Zephaniah 3
2 Chronicles 35:20-27
2 Kings 23:29-30
Jeremiah 47-48
Delighting in God
Prophecies of Judgment and Hope
Today’s reading traverses the intense prophecies of Zephaniah and Jeremiah, illustrating God’s judgment against various nations and His call for repentance. Despite the impending doom, there is a profound message of God’s delight and love for His people.
Zephaniah’s Prophecy: Judgment and Salvation
Zephaniah begins with prophecies against Moab, Ammon, Ethiopia, and Assyria, predicting their utter ruin. This is followed by a stern warning to Jerusalem about its rebellion and the impending judgment. Yet, amidst this, Zephaniah also prophesies a future purification and unification of all people for worship.
Zephaniah 3:8: “For I have decided to gather the kingdoms of the earth and pour out my fiercest anger and fury on them. All the earth will be devoured by the fire of my jealousy.”
Zephaniah’s message reaches a poignant climax with a promise of God’s presence and delight in His people.
Zephaniah 3:17: “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”
Jeremiah’s Prophecies: Judgment and Restoration
Jeremiah’s prophecies against the Philistines and Moab depict total destruction due to their pride and idolatry. Yet, Jeremiah also offers a glimmer of hope, promising restoration in the latter days.
Jeremiah 47:6: “Now, O sword of the LORD, when will you be at rest again? Go back into your sheath; rest and be still.”
Word of the Day: Delight
Delight: great pleasure.
Application: Finding Delight in God’s Presence
I love that in the middle of all these prophecies of destruction, we find this message of God’s delight. What does God take delight in? Us!
Zephaniah 3:17 has been a source of comfort and joy for me. Growing up without a loving father figure, I saw God as an overbearing judge rather than a loving Father. This verse transformed my perspective:
- God is my mighty savior, always ready to help and save me.
- He takes delight in me with gladness, not just putting up with me.
- He calms my fears, inviting me to turn to Him when I am afraid.
- He rejoices over me with joyful songs, like a loving Father singing lullabies over His child.
These verses in Zephaniah are a bright spot amidst many messages of destruction. So, what can we delight in? The “sword of the Lord.”
The “sword of the Lord” in Jeremiah 47 represents divine judgment, but in Hebrews and Ephesians, the “sword” represents the Word of God:
Hebrews 4:12: “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
This sword is a tool of judgment and discernment, highlighting God’s authority and power. And this is something we can delight in!
- Is our God strong and powerful, judging nations? Yes.
- Is God’s Word strong and powerful, judging hearts? Yes.
- Does this powerful God delight in us? Yes.
- Does this powerful God desire to calm our fears? Yes.
God is a God of judgment, but for those who have become His children, we can experience the tender and loving side of God, too. And this should bring us delight!
August 4
2 Chronicles 36:1-5
2 Kings 23:31-37
2 Kings 24:1-4
Jeremiah 22:1-23
Jeremiah 25:1-14
Jeremiah 26
Understanding God’s ‘Because’
The Reign of Jehoahaz and Jehoiakim
In the passages from 2 Chronicles and 2 Kings, we learn about Jehoahaz, also known as Shallum, who reigned as king of Judah after his father, King Josiah. His reign was short-lived, lasting only three months, and marked by evil in the Lord’s sight. Jehoahaz was dethroned by Pharaoh Neco, imprisoned, and eventually died in Egypt, fulfilling the prophecy in Jeremiah 22:12. His brother, Jehoiakim, appointed by Pharaoh Neco, followed with a similarly ungodly rule, leading to dire consequences for Judah.
Jeremiah’s Prophecies: Warnings and Consequences
Jeremiah 22 addresses the rulers of Judah, urging them to act justly and righteously. He criticizes their self-serving actions and lack of concern for their people. Jeremiah’s messages to Jehoiakim and the nation emphasize the need for repentance and righteous leadership.
Jeremiah 22:21: “I warned you when you were prosperous, but you replied, ‘Don’t bother me.’ You have been that way since childhood—you simply will not obey me!”
This passage serves as a powerful call for repentance and a reminder of God’s desire for just and righteous leadership.
Historical Context: The Impending Doom
Reflecting on the historical context, we remember the warnings from prophets like Elijah, Elisha, Joel, Amos, Hosea, Jonah, Isaiah, Micah, Nahum, Zephaniah, Jeremiah, and Habakkuk. These prophets repeatedly warned Israel and Judah of impending doom due to their unfaithfulness. The Babylonian invasion was imminent, as Jeremiah prophesied, leading to Judah’s downfall.
Jeremiah 25:4-5: “Again and again the Lord has sent you his servants, the prophets, but you have not listened or even paid attention. Each time the message was this: ‘Turn from the evil you are doing…’ But you would not listen to me.”
Word of the Day: Because
Because: for reason of, the consequence of.
God’s use of the word “because” in these passages highlights the consequences of Israel’s actions.
Jeremiah 22:8-9: “People from many nations will pass by the ruins of this city and say to one another, ‘Why did the Lord destroy such a great city?’ And the answer will be, ‘Because they violated their covenant with the Lord their God by worshiping other gods.’”
Application: Reflecting on God’s ‘Because’
The frequent use of “because” in God’s messages to Israel serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of our actions. God’s judgments are not arbitrary but are based on the actions and choices of His people.
- God’s Justice and Mercy: God’s actions are just, and His warnings are meant to guide us back to Him. He acts in justice and strength because He is a righteous God who cannot let sin go unpunished.
- God’s Love and Redemption: God’s plan, though it involves judgment, is ultimately rooted in His love and desire for our redemption. He wants to bring us back to Him, offering a better life and eternal salvation through His Son.
Personal Takeaway: Living in the Light of God’s Because
Understanding God’s “because” helps us to see the importance of aligning our lives with His will. Every action has consequences, and God’s guidance is meant to lead us to a life of righteousness and fulfillment in Him.
1 John 3:16: “By this we have known love, because He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.”
Let’s reflect on the “because” in our lives and choose to follow God’s path, understanding that His commands are given out of love and for our ultimate good.
