Jeremiah 33:1-26
Saturday, 18 March 2023
‘Behold, days are coming,’ declares the LORD, ‘when I will fulfill the good word which I have spoken….”-Jeremiah 33:14
Here comes almost an entire chapter that speaks hope and something to look forward to, for a nation which was reeling under the effects of its disloyalty and disobedience to God. God says, He will rebuild them as they were at first! (vs.7) He speaks through the Prophet Jeremiah the many benefits of that restoration they would enjoy. Part of that restoration is also God’s Covenant to His people- the surety of which He compares to the laws of the firmament that doesn’t fail.
A desolation of the city of Judah and its people are seen in the first few verses- God turns His face away from them because of their wickedness. But His love for His people does not allow Him to utterly cast them off- He promises to cleanse them from their iniquity, heal them and bring in an abundance of peace and prosperity! The restoration and the good, the Lord will do for His people would cause other nations to fear and tremble.
What is the “good word” God will fulfill to His people?
A Righteous Branch of David (v.15)- The promise of the Messiah who would bring in a glorious reign of God’s Kingdom in Israel is implied here. Here is renewed hope of something sprouting from a total desolation and absolute hopelessness. Not only will He rule with justice and righteousness but there would be divine protection for the city. Judah shall be called by the name: “THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”
We know the prophecy points to Christ Jesus our Saviour who rescued us from sin’s destruction and made us “righteous”- in right standing with God. He ushered in the New Covenant with His blood that was poured out for the forgiveness of sin (Matt.26:28); His blood cleanses us from all sin when we confess and accept His pardon (1 John 1:9). The devastating effects of sin in our lives will be wiped away and instead joy and gladness will fill our lives by which we will praise God saying: “For the LORD is good; For His mercy endures forever—” (cf Vs.11). When we allow His reign in our lives His righteousness and justice and protection will guard us. Jesus our righteousness will be all sufficient for us!
Then we are reminded of God’s covenant with David— 2 Samuel 7:16: “And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you. Your throne shall be established forever.” Jesus was born in the line of David and His throne will be established for ever when He ushers in the messianic rule at His Second Coming. Jesus fulfils the ministry of both the Priest and the King in the prophecy of Vs.17 &18. The prophecy may have come to Jeremiah centuries before, but the permanence of God’s Covenant with His people will stand the ages until its fulfilment!
As you read this today and you feel your life is in total ruins, in the grip of devastating effects of sin and can’t free yourself from, there is still hope for you! Jesus came to rescue the perishing – He is merciful!—“But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness..” (1 John 1:9 NLT). The good word of restoration He promised to His people is held out to you- if you receive Him into your life, He will restore to you joy and gladness. What more- He will fulfil His Word over your life—"For as many as are the promises of God, in Christ they are [all answered] “Yes.” So through Him we say our “Amen” to the glory of God.” (2Cor.1:20 AMP).
Are you ready for a NEW BEGINNING?
Think on: “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” – 2 Cor.5:17[NLT]
Listen: 'You alone can Rescue '
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