What’s Going On?
What do you do when what God SAYS and what you SEE don’t make sense? In Jeremiah, chapter 32, we see an interesting story unfold. Jeremiah was a prophet during a confusing time. Many false prophets told kings and leaders what they wanted to hear, but when Jeremiah told King Zedekiah that their country would not see victory and would be under siege by Babylon, he ended up imprisoned for telling the truth.
In Jeremiah 32: 6-10 we see God give the prophet a command that makes no sense. He tells him to purchase a piece of land from his cousin that is virtually worthless. It’s worthless because this land is controlled by its enemies and has no value. Buying this land seems like the worst real estate deal imaginable.
Truth Key #1: When God tells you to do something you don’t understand, remember that He knows what you don’t know.
In verses 8-9 Jeremiah says, “I knew that this was the word of the Lord, so I bought the field at Anathoth from my cousin Hanamel.”
One theologian says, “We often have impressions that seem to be from the Lord. Let us rest assured that what He commands He will make possible. When the call is followed by an open door, we need have no hesitation.”
Truth Key #2: Understanding is not a prerequisite for obedience. Often, obedience is the precursor to understanding.
Jeremiah 32: 11-15 shows a revelation of why this land was to be bought. Jeremiah asks for the signed documents and the deed of sale to be placed in a clay jay so they remain protected. He then prophecies that this land will once again be the home to houses, fields, and vineyards. It was a symbolic promise that God would bring his people back to the land that had been taken captive.
Truth Key #3: God is always working for your good, even when you don’t understand.
Gutsy Faith Challenge: Let today be the day you press on despite your understanding. God has good things ahead, and TRUE understanding that operates in ways we don’t comprehend. Can you trust Him today?
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