How should we respond to God's instructions as seen in Jeremiah 35:1? Setting the Scene Jeremiah 35:1 says, “This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD in the days of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah.” One verse, yet packed with guidance for how we should react whenever God speaks. Observations from Jeremiah 35:1 • God Himself initiates: “the word … came.” • The message is personal: it “came to Jeremiah,” calling for an individual response. • The timing is concrete and historical—proof that God speaks into real moments. • The source is unmistakable: “from the LORD,” the covenant name that carries authority. Key Principles for Responding to God’s Instructions • Receive His word as absolutely true and binding. – Psalm 119:160: “The sum of Your word is truth.” • Listen attentively and expectantly. – 1 Samuel 3:10: “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” • Recognize personal responsibility. – Ezekiel 3:10: “Receive into your heart all My words … and listen carefully.” • Obey without delay. – James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Trust His timing; He speaks when we need direction. – Isaiah 55:11: His word will “accomplish what I please.” Practical Steps for Today 1. Create space daily to hear Scripture—read aloud, meditate, or listen to audio. 2. Keep a journal titled “The Word That Came,” recording passages that grip your heart. 3. Pray for a responsive spirit before you study; then act on the first clear command you see. 4. Share what you learn with a trusted believer for accountability and encouragement. 5. Review and recount how past obedience has proven God faithful; let that fuel fresh obedience. Encouragement from Other Scriptures • John 10:27: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Luke 11:28: “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” • Psalm 119:33-34: “Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes … give me understanding, that I may keep Your law.” The pattern is clear: when God speaks, we listen with reverence and respond with wholehearted obedience, confident His word is accurate, literal, and life-giving. |
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