How can we ensure we are not like those in Jeremiah 44:5 today? Setting the Scene Jeremiah 44 records Judah’s remnant in Egypt flatly refusing the word of the LORD. Verse 5 pinpoints the root problem: “ ‘But they did not listen or incline their ear to turn from their wickedness or stop offering to other gods.’ ” (Jeremiah 44:5) What Went Wrong in 44:5 • They heard God’s warning yet chose not to listen. • They would not “incline their ear”—an obstinate posture of the heart. • They kept serving idols, proving their rebellion was deliberate, not accidental. Recognizing the Same Dangers Today • Selective hearing—treating Scripture as optional counsel rather than binding truth (James 1:22). • Cultural idols—anything we fear, love, or serve more than God: success, relationships, pleasure, even ministry achievements (1 John 5:21). • Stubborn patterns—habits we excuse instead of repent of (Hebrews 3:12-13). Practical Ways to “Incline the Ear” 1. Daily, undiluted Scripture intake – Read, study, and memorize with the goal of obedience (Psalm 119:11, John 14:23). 2. Immediate, specific repentance – Confess sin as soon as the Spirit convicts (Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9). 3. Whole-life worship – Offer your body “as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1-2); surrender decisions, time, finances, and aspirations. 4. Regular self-examination – Ask the Spirit to expose hidden idols (Psalm 139:23-24). 5. Accountable fellowship – Invite trusted believers to speak truth in love (Hebrews 10:24-25; Galatians 6:1). Safeguards Against Modern Idolatry • Practice contentment—thank God for what you have; resist covetous cravings (Philippians 4:11-13). • Sabbath rhythms—rest reminds us God, not work, provides (Exodus 20:8-11). • Generous giving—releases money’s grip and funds kingdom priorities (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Guarded media intake—choose inputs that feed holiness, not compromise (Philippians 4:8). Positive Examples to Follow • Josiah humbled himself before the Book of the Law and “did not turn aside to the right or to the left” (2 Kings 22:18-20; 23:25). • The Bereans examined the Scriptures daily, eager to confirm truth (Acts 17:11). • Jesus Himself modeled perfect submission: “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me” (John 4:34). Encouragement from the New Covenant • God has written His law on our hearts through the Spirit (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 8:10). • Grace not only forgives but trains us “to deny ungodliness” (Titus 2:11-12). • Victory is promised: “He who began a good work in you will perfect it” (Philippians 1:6). Living the Contrast to Jeremiah 44:5 • Listen—daily surrender to Scripture’s authority. • Turn—repent promptly whenever conviction comes. • Stop—forsake competing loyalties, big or small. • Serve—worship the one true God with all heart, soul, mind, and strength (Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 6:33). By God’s grace, these patterns keep us far from the rebellion of Jeremiah’s day and close to the heart of our faithful Lord. |
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