Jer. 22, 23 [The Message]

As Jeremiah was prophesying about Christ, he identified the fact that undersheperds need t round up the lost sheep and bring them back to the fold. After all, they are the Lord’s sheep and don’t belong to the undershepherds. In fact, a GOOD shepherd will leave the 99 and go retrieve the lost sheep.

It seems to me that pastors may spend too much effort on attracting the healthy sheep at the cost of allowing the unhealthy ones to remain out in danger. Rescuing dirty, rebellious sheep is hard work. SOMEBODY needs to do it.

Jer. 20, 21 [The Message]

New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle … we’ve witnessed the decay and degradation of many prominent cities recently. We must value them more than God does. He allowed Jerusalem to be downtrodden and burned by the Babylonians. We hear in the news that even Nazareth, Christ’s hometown, is in trouble right now.

Sin. It’s the one-word reason for their corruption and loss of prestige. You can’t keep kicking against God’s principles and His messengers and go merrily on your way.

Jer. 19 [The Message]

Jeremiah’s message was to Jews who were NOT GUILTLESS. In fact, many of their grievous sins were against innocent children. Children were offered to the heathen god Molech in the valley of Hinnom. It was called Tophet. It prefigured Gehenna Hell. I AM pro-Israel, but they are not without fault. The wholesale anti-Semitism in our country and world right now turn my stomach, and it must be stopped. We pray. We express our support for the Jews. (Both of my cancer doctors are Jews.) Some of the most productive research and advancements against cancer are coming from Israel.

Yes, meanwhile we keep praying!!!

Jer. 18 [The Message]

It was at the potter’s house that Jeremiah was inspired to write these words when he saw that the lump of clay could only be destroyed when it didn’t cooperate with the potter.

The potter has power over the clay. When the clay has different plans for its purpose, the Master Potter must nullify those plans and start over. the Apostle Paul had HIS plans for his life, but Christ had different plans. Aren’t we all glad that a Bright Light from Heaven knocked him off his horse, asked him why he kept kicking against God’s messages, and turned his life in a Godly direction?

How about you, friend? God has a marvelous plan for your life. Just utter the words little Samuel replied to God … “Speak, Lord. Your servant is listening.”

Jer. 17 [The Message]

Eventually, cheaters will have their sin exposed. The pain incurred far surpasses the advantage they obtain. It’s JUST NOT WORTH IT.

Cheating on your mate has to be nearly the worst cheating there is. It breaks hearts, families, trust, and hope for the future. Forgiveness is critical. If the offended party does not forgive, they are placing themselves in a trap that keeps closing in on them. Freedom comes through forgiveness. No sense in dragging an offense around with you for the rest of your life.

Jer. 16 [The Message]

God’s Word makes it clear that the Jews won’t be removed from their land … ever. HE gave it to them. Although He may be upset with their idolatry and disobedience, He will honor His Word.

The Old Testament is full of stories about kings and peoples threatening them. Only the Babylonians succeeded in a temporary exile, but it was still THEIR LAND.

If you’ve given your life to Christ, Heaven is YOUR LAND. We, in effect, are strangers here and Heaven is our destination and home. Paul said, “Set your affection on things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. [Col. 3:1]

Jer. 15 [The Message]

Jeremiah lived a tough life. Nevertheless, his life and teachings had a profound effect on the future development of both Judaism and Christianity. Although his words fell mostly on deaf ears, he was faithful to proclaim the message God gave him. He provided us the clearest glimpse of the new covenant God intended to make with His people once Christ came to earth. No Rolls-Royces to drive, no mansion to live in, no world-wide TV ministry, just a life dedicated to obedience to God whatever the consequences.

In comparison, we are SO BLESSED. As we consider this outstanding person, we should commit ourselves to similar lives of purpose and sacrifice for God’s Kingdom.

Jer. 13, 14 [The Message]

The prophet scolded preachers who aren’t really called and who preach a message that he called “sheer illusion.” How sad. It’s true today. There are no doubt many pulpits that are filled with men (and women) who are not called of God. They speak lies and false visions, worthless magic, and their own wishful thinking. [v.14 ERV]

It’s been so long since I’ve heard such a message. How futile would it be to try to proclaim from God’s platform a message that cuts against His Word.

The process of a man of God seeking the Lord and sharing God’s heart on a Sunday is a precious process, and those who earnestly apply themselves to preaching His message deserve a big THANK YOU.

I so appreciate my son-on-law, Dr. Mark Anthony, because he always brings a challenging, scriptural message from God’s heart to His people.

Jer. 11, 12 [The Message]

God won’t let you get away with it. So was Jeremiah’s slogan. Others could indulge in whatever they wanted, but God had a much higher standard for Jeremiah … and you and me. We can’t allow ourselves to measure our life’s success or fulfillment by what we see others do.

One of the Psalmists, possibly Asaph, composed Psalm 73 about his observations of the heathen. They were prospering but he wasn’t. God showed him that they had a different “end” than he did.

We don’t live for the moment. We live for the “ending.”

Jer. 8-10 [The Message]

Jeremiah lauds leaders who consult God, but calls those who don’t stupid.

I saw a news photo of the new Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, and other congressmen kneeling on the House floor to pray. This is so refreshing to see. We actually have a powerful leader who is asking God for wisdom to rule. Hallelujah!

We need to pray for him and others who have the courage and wisdom to seek God for our nation.