Scripture Union Daily Guide 12 May 2020
Topic: Obeying the Voice of God
Opening Prayer: Oh Lord, grant me spiritual insight into the truth of your word as I study it.
Scripture: Jeremiah 42: 1–22
Reflection
• Is there any promise for me to believe or hope for?
• Is there any warning for me to heed?
Scripture Union Daily Guide 12 May 2020 – Obeying the Voice of God
Outline: These Egypt bound Jews decided to seek the Lord. They know that Jeremiah is a true prophet and asked him to intercede on their behalf (vv.2–3). Jeremiah is willing to pray for them and the people appear to be willing to do as God directs them (vv.4–6). Do you, however, think this was a sincere desire? Ten days later (v.7), ‘The word of the Lord came to Jeremiah’.
Jeremiah, the great prophet of God, prayed earnestly for ten days before receiving answer from God. How we too need to persevere in prayer and desist from looking out for instant answers to our prayer. See Jesus’ parable in Luke 18:1–8.
Note the passionate and encouraging promises God gave Jeremiah for the people (vv.10–12) and on the contrary, the consequences if they refuse to obey him (vv.15–18). Think deeply about the mercies of God towards us (see also, Psalm 103:9–14).
The warnings in vv.19–22 clearly show that God will not compel us against our will to do his bidding. He will rather lay out the truth before us. Whatever choice we make has its corresponding consequences.
Practice/Word Application
• Meditation: Abraham obeyed God and it was counted to him as righteousness.
Prayer Points
• Father, help me to seek you in sincerity of my heart and grant me the grace to obey when you speak.
• Ask God to help you know His will, walk in it and be an example to believers and unbelievers .
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Jeremiah 29:12
Read the Bible in one Year
1 Kings 3–5; Matt. 6:19–34