Scripture: Jeremiah 14: 17-18, 20-21

Therefore thou shalt say this word unto them; Let mine eyes run down with tears night and day, and let them not cease: for the virgin daughter of my people is broken with a great breach, with a very grievous blow.(17)  If I go forth into the field, then behold the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then behold them that are sick with famine! yea, both the prophet and the priest go about into a land that they know not.(18)   We acknowledge, O LORD, our wickedness, and the iniquity of our fathers: for we have sinned against thee.(20)  Do not abhor us, for thy name’s sake, do not disgrace the throne of thy glory: remember, break not thy covenant with us.(21)

Scripture Commentary: It’s not easy to acknowledge our wickedness

Jeremiah interceded for the people. He asked God if Judah’s repentance might bring His help, but God refused. The people’s insincerety, wickedness, and stubbornness parted them from God. They knew God wanted to bless them, and they knew what God required from them in order to receive the blessing. The people wanted God to do his part but they did not want to do theirs.

Do you think, for a moment, God forgot his covenant with them? Do you think He would ever forget His promise to us? God never forgets, but we constantly forget our covenant with him. It’s easy to express sorrow for wrong actions, especially when we want something. It’s not easy to acknowledge our wickedness and stop the wrong action.

God will forgive those who are truly repentant, but hypocrites will be severely punished. You must identify your wrong action, ask for forgiveness, and make a change in your life. That is true repentance.

Remember these three important lessons:
1) We can reveal our true hearts to God in prayer
2) God expects us to trust him, no matter what
3) We are here to influence others for God

Read the Entire Chapter:
Jeremiah Chapter 14