Theologian Thomas Oden once said something to the effect that as our culture becomes one of COMFORT our feelings becomes GOD’S VOICE.
In effect he is saying that we have become so acclimatized to comfort that it will be hard to believe that God would place us in a situation like he did to JOB.
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. People claim this promise and really believe it and because of our culture we do not see the condition on that promise in verse 7, “Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” So in verse 7b, our hope is linked to the hope you have for your enemies, that is, If you want prosperity.
Note how in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks about loving our enemies. What hope is there for the world if we do not love our enemies? Paul reminds us that we were all in that position (Romans 5). Verse 8 in Jeremiah 29 then says, be careful not to encourage the prophets to come up with the answer you want to hear.
Jeremiah 29:8 Yes, this is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have.
Please read Jeremiah 29 carefully in the next week. What are you hearing from God?
Comments on this entry are closed.