September 8, 2017: SOAP #2836: Jeremiah 42-44; Psalm 48; Revelation 13

Scripture:  Jeremiah (NIV) 43:27 For I am watching over them for harm, not for good; the Jews in Egypt will perish by sword and famine until they are all destroyed.
Jeremiah 44:22 When the LORD could no longer endure your wicked actions and the detestable things you did, your land became an object of cursing and a desolate waste without inhabitants, as it is today.
Revelation 13:9 He who has an ear, let him hear.

Observation:  Israel had committed so much sin that God could take it no longer!   Sin would have destroyed Israel, but God was not through with Israel.  The promised Messiah had not yet been given.  If there would be a nation to receive the Messiah, sin would need to be cut back.  So, God went to work, watching over them to allow harmful punishment.  In God’s emergency tool kit, he had war and famine and evil rulers to take them captive.

Application:  In the USA, there has been a partial turning toward God, but not yet a national turning away from sin.  God has many tools to use in dealing with us.  He does not need to bring an invading army, God has wild fires, hurricanes, debt, illegal immigration, etc.

Three observations I have about “natural” disasters.  First, God can send them.  Second, God can allow them.  And third, God can stop/prevent them.  It would never be wrong to ask God if there are things we need to change.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, let those who have ears to hear (Rev 13:9), hear what you are saying to our nation.  Guide us in returning to our Godly heritage. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!