Jeremiah 42:2-4, 7
A group of Judean army officers approached Jeremiah, asking his petition to God on their behalf. They were committed to doing as the Lord commanded.
Verse 4: “All right,” Jeremiah replied. “I will pray to the Lord your God, as you have asked, and I will tell you everything he says. I will hide nothing from you.”
A group of Judean army officers approached Jeremiah, asking his petition to God on their behalf. They were committed to doing as the Lord commanded.
Verse 4: “All right,” Jeremiah replied. “I will pray to the Lord your God, as you have asked, and I will tell you everything he says. I will hide nothing from you.”
Ready for this? Keep in mind these men are willing to "surrender" to the will of God -- capitulate to His plan of attack. Verse 7 says, "Ten days later the Lord gave his reply to Jeremiah." Ten days later? Are you serious? These were warriors -- men of action! They needed an answer!
So often we think if we are open to God's will, being obedient, ready to do whatever He requires, we should have our response right away. Our legalistic humanity tells us, "Do good things -- get a reward." We're trained to think this way from childhood. God is not a gumball machine or Social Studies teacher; He doesn't operate on our timetable or our terms. Besides, even our best deeds are as filthy rags when it comes to redemption!