A Word in Season

Read Jeremiah 38:1-13

As a pessimist, Jeremiah was just about tolerable, but as an out-and-out defeatist it was impossible to have him around any longer! In times of war, such people were imprisoned for spreading alarm and despondency, for "weakening the hands of the soldiers", and, accordingly, Jeremiah ended up in jail.

Time would show that all along Jeremiah had been speaking in the best interests of the people; his policy would be vindicated. To brave men, surrender is always hateful in the extreme, but it is sometimes better for all concerned than fanatical and hopeless resistance.

But, of course, the point here is not that Jeremiah was giving his own counsel or advice. Indeed, he probably hated the idea of surrendering to the murderous Babylonians as much as anyone else did, but he could only say what the Lord had told him to say (v.2). He could not alter it. Israel had sinned; they had to accept what was coming to them.

It is pleasant enough when you can say what people want to hear, but as God's servant you have to speak His words whatever the reaction. True, in the end there is always good news to proclaim; there is a remedy that is wonderful to hear; but it is a remedy that can only be received by those who have admitted their need, and pocketed their pride.

Prayer: Save me, O Lord, from watering down Your message out of fear of what others may say or think. For Your love's sake. Amen.

Image: Jeremiah in the pit.