What can we learn about obedience from Jeremiah's actions in Jeremiah 37:4? Setting the Scene Jeremiah 37 describes a tense moment when King Zedekiah vacillates between fearing Babylon and craving God’s favor. Verse 4 notes the prophet’s status before his arrest: “Now Jeremiah was free to come and go among the people, for they had not yet put him in prison.” Jeremiah’s Quiet but Costly Obedience • He remained accessible—walking publicly among the very people angered by his prophecies. • He did not run for safety, hide, or soften his message to avoid conflict (cf. Jeremiah 26:12–15). • He used the window of freedom to keep delivering God’s word while it was still day (cf. John 9:4). • He trusted the Lord with the consequences, knowing imprisonment—or worse—was likely. What Obedience Looks Like in the “In-Between” 1. Faithfulness before crisis strikes – Obedience is proven not only during persecution but in the hours preceding it. – “Be ready in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). 2. Availability to the people God assigns – Jeremiah’s mobility let him minister to ordinary citizens, officials, and the king. – True servants stay reachable (cf. Acts 20:20). 3. Courage to remain visible – Walking openly signaled confidence in God, not in personal security measures. – “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) 4. Stewardship of current freedoms – He used every moment of liberty for God’s purposes, knowing it could vanish overnight. – “Make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16) 5. Acceptance of God’s timetable – Jeremiah did not hurry events by reckless provocation, nor did he delay obedience by fear. – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” (1 Samuel 15:22) Key Takeaways for Us • Obedience thrives in ordinary routines; waiting for extreme moments wastes today’s calling. • Remaining present where God places us may speak louder than any speech we give. • Freedom is not merely a privilege to enjoy but a platform for testimony. • Genuine obedience keeps eyes on God’s approval, not public opinion or personal comfort (cf. Galatians 1:10). • Prompt action now prepares the heart for harsher trials later (cf. James 1:22). Living It Today – Stay accessible: answer calls, texts, knocks—God may use simple availability. – Speak truth in love before doors close. – Schedule your day around what God wants proclaimed, not what people prefer heard. – Thank God for current liberties and invest them in eternal work. |
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