QT 12/22/2022 Jer 31:15-17, There is pain but incredible joy is coming

Jeremiah 31:15–17 (ESV) —

15 Thus says the Lord:

“A voice is heard in Ramah,

lamentation and bitter weeping.

Rachel is weeping for her children;

she refuses to be comforted for her children,

because they are no more.”

16 Thus says the Lord:

“Keep your voice from weeping,

and your eyes from tears,

for there is a reward for your work,

declares the Lord,

and they shall come back from the land of the enemy.

17 There is hope for your future,

declares the Lord,

and your children shall come back to their own country.

 

NOTE: The prophecy in verse 15 relates to Satan's last attempt to destroy the line of David. From that point on, he would have to focus on the destruction of the entire people. What encourages me is that even at the advent of the first coming, there is joy in the midst of the pain. There will be great pain before the second coming. Christians are not destined for wrath and will be delivered from wrath, but we do suffer pain for our testimony. Life will be difficult. The enemy will attack us at every point to destroy our testimony. It is that testimony which is the greatest threat. Our testimony of faith in Christ and love for the savior and our neighbor will be attractive. And many who might die without Jesus during the days of wrath will become tribulations saints. We mustn't give up and get sidetracked from the real purpose of our remaining life, here on earth prior to the tribulation.

 

PONDER:

1. What am I doing to show Jesus to my neighbors and co-workers?

 

PRAYER: Father, help to see the opportunities you give to share my faith. Give me the courage to stand up next to Jesus during those times.