A New Covenant: A Study in JeremiahSample

What does it say?

Jeremiah told King Zedekiah that God would join Nebuchadnezzar and fight against Jerusalem.

What does it mean?

Pashhur and Zephaniah wanted God to miraculously fight for His people as He had done throughout their existence as a nation. They failed to realize that previous displays of His power on their behalf were usually connected to their obedience. Presently, Judah disregarded warnings regarding their sin. Although the city and the monarchy would be destroyed, God graciously offered His people a way of escape: surrender to the Babylonians. Surrendering their will to God’s plan would be their means to live.

How should I respond?

The American mindset is, “Never surrender!” Like Judah, however, complete surrender to God is our means to life. Despite His patience, we often remain defiant, knowingly disobeying the Lord’s instructions while presumptuously asking Him to fight our battles. Giving up control of your life requires humility. So how do you know when you’ve surrendered? Can you honestly say that you trust Him more than your own agenda? Do you spend more time fighting against God’s plan or for His purpose? God wants to graciously intervene in your life. You must first be willing to say, “I surrender all!”