In what ways can we apply the people's approach to seeking divine counsel today? A Remnant on the Brink Jeremiah 42 records an historical moment right after Jerusalem’s fall. A few survivors gather around Jeremiah and plead: “May our petition come before you; pray to the LORD your God on behalf of this entire remnant. For as you can see, though we were once many, only a few of us remain.” (Jeremiah 42:2) The way these desperate people sought divine counsel shines a light on how we can still approach God today. What We Notice in Their Approach • They acknowledged their need. • They appealed to someone who clearly spoke the word of the LORD. • They asked for intercessory prayer. • They came as a united body—“this entire remnant.” • They recognized God’s faithfulness despite their smallness. • They desired direction more than mere relief (v. 3). Timeless Principles We Can Live Out 1. Humble Admission of Need – Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted.” – No pretense, no façade—just honest weakness before God. 2. Seeking God’s Word First – Isaiah 8:20: “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, there is no light of dawn.” – Today we turn to Scripture, the completed and authoritative revelation. 3. Enlisting Prayer Support – James 5:16: “Pray for one another so that you may be healed.” – Invite faithful believers to stand with you in intercession. 4. Corporate Pursuit of Guidance – Acts 13:1-3: the church at Antioch worshiped and fasted together before sending missionaries. – Family decisions, church decisions, and even personal crossroads benefit from shared seeking. 5. Confidence in God’s Care for the Few – Matthew 18:20: “Where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them.” – Numbers never intimidate the Lord; He delights in the remnant. Putting It into Practice • Start with Scripture open. Read until a verse grips you; pray it back to God. • Gather two or three trusted believers; explain your need; ask them to pray regularly for clear direction. • Fast a meal or a day and spend that time reading passages like Psalm 25:4-5, Proverbs 3:5-6, James 1:5-6. • Journal impressions, Scriptures, and counsel you receive. • Confirm every impression by the text of Scripture; God’s voice never contradicts His written Word. • Submit to the answer, even if it challenges your preferences—something the remnant in Jeremiah ultimately failed to do (Jeremiah 43:1-7). A Cautionary Note from the Chapters that Follow Though the remnant asked rightly, they later rejected the divine counsel given. Their story reminds us that the blessing lies not merely in seeking but in obeying: “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Luke 11:28) Encouragement for Today’s Seekers God still delights to guide humble hearts. When we approach Him the way the remnant initially did—with open hands, united hearts, and a commitment to obey—He answers with clarity, peace, and direction. James 1:5 assures, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” |
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