Jeremiah 38:20-21

Jeremiah 38:20-21 (ESV):  “20 Jeremiah said, “You shall not be given to them. Obey now the voice of the Lord in what I say to you, and it shall be well with you, and your life shall be spared. 21 But if you refuse to surrender, this is the vision which the Lord has shown to me.”

Surrender to God and His will leads to life. Rebellion against God leads to chastisement and even death. Raise the white flag to Him today—for His ways are always better!

King Zedekiah secretly summoned Jeremiah and asked him to speak truthfully about the Babylonians. The king promised he would not put him to death for delivering the prophecy. Jeremiah told him plainly that if he and the officials of Judah would surrender to the Babylonians, they would live and the city would be spared. Tragically, Zedekiah did not obey the Lord. As a result, all the officials of Judah were killed, and Zedekiah’s eyes were gouged out before he was taken in chains to Babylon.

What is your response to God’s call to surrender? Do you raise the white flag, or do you continue walking in rebellion? His intention for you is salvation and sanctification. He desires to save your soul and to make you more like His Son. If today you find yourself in rebellion, repent and turn back to God. He will receive you and transform you. The first step is bowing in surrender. Try it—you will be amazed at what He will do. Amen?

Father, we thank You for contending with us. We confess that we are rebellious at heart and need Your redirection often. Forgive us, and help us to surrender always to Your Word and Your will. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.