SCRIPTURE:
“Pray that the Lord your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do.”
Jeremiah 42:3
OBSERVATION:
Johanan, Jezaniah and the people seek out guidance from Jeremiah on the heels of the destruction that had just happened at Mizpah. They had already decided on leaving for Egypt and were on their way (Jeremiah 41:17). The request they make seemed to be looking for confirmation of their decision, rather than true seeking out of direction. They make this dangerous statement:
“Whether it is favorable or unfavorable, we will obey the Lord our God, to whom we are sending you, so that it will go well with us, for we will obey the Lord our God.” – Jeremiah 42:6
When Jeremiah tells them what The Lord says and that it’s in their best interest to stay, rather than go, their response is one of defiance. They call Jeremiah a liar and make some hefty accusations (Jeremiah 43:2-3).
APPLICATION:
If Jeremiah was a local boy he would probably say – “Brah, Why you ask, then?” I’ve been of the belief that when someone has made up their mind about what they WANT to do, their seeking out of advice is really just looking for confirmation. When it isn’t given, they move on to the next person…and the next…and the next…until someone agrees with them.
There have been countless occasions when someone has come to me seeking out advice and guidance. I’ll often tell them that I can share my opinion, but the advice you should really listen to is that of The Lord. I’ll follow up by suggesting they seek Him out on their own to hear His voice.
It can get easy for many of us to decide what we think is best to do. Our pride will often tell us we are right and to “go with your gut.” That more often than not leads to regret. While I can get prideful like Johanan and Jezaniah, I mustn’t let it get the better of me that I would begin to make decisions that I would soon regret.
PRAYER:
Father Almighty. Forgive me Lord when I have sought out your advice, only to follow my own or that of man. Thank You Lord that You always have my best in mind. May I seek out Your heart and voice, this I pray, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
