In what ways does Jeremiah 24:3 encourage us to trust God's ultimate plan? A Clear Snapshot of God’s Plan “Then the LORD said to me, ‘What do you see, Jeremiah?’ ‘Figs,’ I replied. ‘The good figs are very good, but the bad figs are very bad, so bad they cannot be eaten.’ ” What the Verse Shows at First Glance • God Himself initiates the dialogue and directs the prophet’s gaze. • Jeremiah answers plainly: there are two unmistakable categories—very good and very bad. • The scene is concrete, literal, and given at a moment of national upheaval (the first Babylonian deportation). How the Verse Boosts Our Confidence in God’s Ultimate Plan • God is the One who calls attention to the vision. He is never passive; He leads and guides events. • The clarity of “good” versus “bad” reminds us that God’s moral standards are absolute (Isaiah 5:20). He is never confused about right and wrong, even when circumstances look murky to us. • The Lord allows Jeremiah to see what He sees. Revelation of truth is a grace gift; the same God still reveals His will through His Word (Psalm 119:105). • Good figs are described as “very good,” stressing God’s lavish care for the faithful remnant. His plans are not merely adequate; they overflow with goodness (Ephesians 3:20). • Bad figs are acknowledged as “very bad,” underscoring that judgment is part of God’s righteous plan. Justice and mercy move forward together (Psalm 89:14). • The vision precedes exile but already hints at restoration for the “good figs” (explained in vv. 4-7). God writes every chapter, including the return, before the story even feels hopeful to us (Jeremiah 29:11). • By naming what cannot be eaten, God shows He protects His people from what would harm them. Even discipline is used to prune and ultimately bless (Hebrews 12:10-11). • The simplicity of figs makes the lesson accessible. God does not require advanced analysis before He comforts His people; He speaks in everyday images we can trust and remember. Scripture Echoes Reinforcing These Truths • Romans 8:28: “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” • Psalm 33:11: “The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the purposes of His heart to all generations.” • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” • Isaiah 55:8-9: “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,’ declares the LORD. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.’” Living the Lesson Today • Keep looking where God points—soak in His Word daily, trusting that He still clarifies reality. • Rest in His moral wisdom; He alone decides what is truly good or bad. • Receive discipline as a sign you belong to Him; the pruning leads to life-giving fruit. • Celebrate His revealed goodness now, even when you are in a “Babylon season,” confident that restoration is already scripted. |
    |