The prophet Jeremiah was raised up to guide the Israelites during the most difficult period for the people of Judah, after the death of King Josiah. The biggest problem he faced was the Israelites' turning away from the Lord to the worship of other gods, immorality, and other sins common in those days. He continued to warn them during the reign of Jehoiakim until the end of Zedekiah's rule, who was also a son of Josiah (1 Chronicles 3:15). Believe and live!

Shortly after Jeroboam separated the ten tribes of Israel, a prophecy was given about the birth of a son who would be born in the house of David, whose name would be Josiah, and who would bring reform to the people of God (1 Kings 13:2). It took 336 years for this prophecy to be fulfilled, and the king did exactly what had been predicted about him. However, the sons who succeeded him committed very grave errors against God's people, therefore, they were taken into captivity in Babylon.

The birth of Josiah and the works he performed according to divine revelation fill us with joy and prove that God keeps His Word. He wants us to honor Him by doing our part: Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. (Revelation 2:10).

Every word that the Lord gave to Jeremiah to deliver to the people was fulfilled in the lives of those who listened to him. Take note: the secret to being successful is to recognize what God declares in the Scriptures and believe that it will come to pass. Therefore, stand firm on the Word, claiming its fulfillment in the Name of Jesus. The Lord does not speak in vain, but with holy and eternal purposes. It is profitable to obey the Father. Believe!

The prophet would face many difficulties in his ministry, but God would never abandon him. When we receive direction from Heaven, we only need to believe in the Most High, for He instructs us in all things. Therefore, prepare yourself to do the divine will, lest you be found a liar. Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved (Psalm 125:1).

How sad it is to read the end of the verse we are studying: until the carrying away of Jerusalem captive! Why did Josiah's sons not imitate him, but did what they should never have heeded? Acting without God's guidance will bring us the punishment we deserve (Hosea 9:7). Our part is to believe in the fulfillment of the Lord's promises concerning us. Repenting of sins is wholesome (Hosea 14:2)!

Jeremiah's ministry took place in the worst time of the people of Israel, for what the Most High had forbidden was practiced without any fear. They sold themselves to the devil and, as a consequence, were taken to the worst “school” of all time: Babylon. Be vigilant!

           In Christ, with love,

          R. R. Soares