by Katrina
LINK: Jeremiah 7
BACKGROUND
The people trusted in the temple itself rather than the God of the temple. They thought they were secure because they "worshiped" at the temple, and surely God wouldn't destroy His own temple. Since God had delivered them from Sennacherib's army almost 100 years before (2 Kings 18-19), the people thought that Jerusalem, as the site of the temple, was invincible.
But from God's perspective, they were corrupting the temple. They included other gods in the temple, polluting it. Their sacrifices and religious activities were just that - outward activities. Their actions were not true worship because their hearts were not turned toward Him.
So, God told Jeremiah to tell the people of the coming destruction. And God told him that they would refuse to listen. Jeremiah should not intercede for them, because they are disobedient, and have been disobedient ever since God brought them out of Egypt. God has sent messengers repeatedly, but rather than listening, the people have hardened their hearts toward God.
REFLECTION
God clearly hates it when we put religion above obedience to Him. Do you remember when Saul offered a sacrifice to God (1 Samuel 13) and was condemned for disobedience? And the Pharisees were condemned by Jesus for their outward religious acts but sinful hearts (Matthew 23:27-28). God said, "For I did not speak to your fathers, or command them in the day that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, concerning burnt offerings and sacrifices. But this is what I commanded them, saying, 'Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you will be My people; and you will walk in all the way which I command you, that it may be well with you'" (vs. 22-23). Ultimately, what God is after is obedience, just simple obedience.
APPLICATION
Obedience is simple, but it isn't always easy! We can get very stubborn, just like Israel and Judah did. And we can justify our disobedience quite well by focusing on our own outward religious behavior rather than the condition of our hearts.
But what God requires is humility and obedience. Let's take some time today to examine ourselves before God. Ask Him to reveal to you any areas of your life where you may be banking on your outward performance and what you give to God, rather than living in humble obedience to Him. Confess your sin to Him, and He will forgive you.
PRAYER
Lord, you do not delight in our sacrifices if our hearts are not pure before you. Sometimes it's easier for us to do the outward actions and pretend that everything's okay. But what you really want from us is humble obedience from the heart. Show me today if there is anything I need to bring to you and confess my disobedience. Cleanse my heart and teach me your ways and obedience to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
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