Jeremiah 21:1 – 23:40 (Continued)

October 26, 2011

How terrible it will be—

• for those who build their wealth by doing evil
• for those who cheat others to benefit themselves

They use and abuse people for their own gain. "You only look for and think about what you can get dishonestly." You are interested in "appearances," wanting the best so other people will be impressed by your so-called importance. It's all about you and what you want. Pride controls your decision making and ethics. You will do whatever it takes to get ahead. "You are even willing to kill innocent people to get it. You feel free to hurt people and to steal from them." You don't think the rules or laws apply to you. Fluid. You want to "appear" to be great. But appearances mean nothing. "Appearing" to be a Christ follower means nothing. The truth about how we live is what is important. 

Jeremiah explains what kind of choices you need to make.

    "He did what was right and fair,
        so everything went will with him." (Jeremiah 22:15)
    "He helped those who were poor and needy,
        so everything went well with him." (Jeremiah 22:16)

"This is what it means to know God," says the LORD. "Appearances" mean nothing. The truth will come out. God knows. In Jeremiah 22:21 God says, "I warned you, but you said, 'I will not listen'." "You have acted like this since you were young; you have not obeyed me." Once again—pride. The determination to be in control yourself, to be the god of your own life, has been the root of the problem since youth.


Next Entry: Jeremiah 21:1 – 23:40 (Continued)