Jeremiah 21
Jeremiah continues to warn the Israelites of impending punishment. He reminds us of God's perfect justice. We need not concern ourselves with how others should be punished for their sin - they will as all are subject to God's perfect judgement. Yet at the same time, we must be aware that God is full of grace and in this respect we get what we don't deserve - His forgiveness. We may see that others get grace when they don't deserve yet we must realize that NONE of us deserve as we all sin (Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8) and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).
All of this said, many of us may feel "punished" as we experience difficulties (see also post yesterday).
On this count, two of John Piper's posts are helpful.
Why God Doesn't Fully Explain Pain
Response to Rabbi Kushner
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me, forgives me and who reigns with perfect judgement...thank You Jesus for the gift of grace. I am undeserving. I miss the mark and I worry. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome my sin and turn towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You do. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
I will punish you as your deeds deserve, declares the Lord. v14
Jeremiah continues to warn the Israelites of impending punishment. He reminds us of God's perfect justice. We need not concern ourselves with how others should be punished for their sin - they will as all are subject to God's perfect judgement. Yet at the same time, we must be aware that God is full of grace and in this respect we get what we don't deserve - His forgiveness. We may see that others get grace when they don't deserve yet we must realize that NONE of us deserve as we all sin (Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8) and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).
All of this said, many of us may feel "punished" as we experience difficulties (see also post yesterday).
On this count, two of John Piper's posts are helpful.
Why God Doesn't Fully Explain Pain
Response to Rabbi Kushner
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me, forgives me and who reigns with perfect judgement...thank You Jesus for the gift of grace. I am undeserving. I miss the mark and I worry. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome my sin and turn towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You do. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
