"The days are coming," declares the Lord, "when I will punish all who are circumcised only in the flesh-- Egypt, Judah, Edom, Ammon, Moab are all who live in the desert in distant places. For all these nations are really uncircumcised, and even the whole house of Israel is uncircumcised in heart."
Jeremiah 9:25-26 NIV
Prophecy is timely, timeless; understood with the help of the Spirit and has an obvious fulfillment. Here we read of Jeremiah's words of warning, coming judgement on nations, and punishment for being circumcised only of the flesh and not of the heart.
We readers do understand that Judah, Israel and other nations of the period did fall under God's judgement and own demise due to their falling away from the law, worshiping idols, and turning to treaties, others and themselves rather than to God for protection, safety, guidance and life.
As we move ahead to Jeremiah, realize that Jeremiah's message was a message that was parallel to the other old testament prophets. Jeremiah explained that Judah had sinned, that there is present responsibility, and a future hope. However, that future hope was dependent on repentance, a change in the hearts inward attitude. This hope would not occur if only a restoration of worship without a concurrent change of heart.
God's anger was heightened by idol worship, burning incense to other gods, and by other detestable actions.
Can you think of any idols in the world today?
Are there things in your life that turn your heart's focus away from Jesus and His work for you?
Pray for the Spirit's guidance through your day, pray for those in government to have wisdom and guidance from the Lord as they discern our challenges.
In Christ,
David P
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