Return to the Lord
Jeremiah 4:1
"If you will return, O Israel," says the LORD, "Return to Me; And if you will put away your abominations out of My sight, Then you shall not be moved. - Jeremiah 4:1 (NKJV)
God issues a call to Israel, urging them to return to Him. He offers the promise of stability and security if they turn away from their sinful ways. It's a timeless message of hope, extended not only to Israel, but to all who would hear and respond.
I. The Call to Return
God's plea is simple yet profound: "If you will return, O Israel, return to Me." This call is not limited to a geographical return, but a spiritual one. It's an invitation to come back to God, to find refuge and restoration in His presence.
II. Putting Away Abominations
The condition for stability is clear: "put away your abominations out of My sight." This addresses the need for genuine repentance. Israel is urged to forsake their idolatry and detestable practices that have caused a separation between them and God. Idolatry is an abomination before God. So, God calls to forsake the ways that lead to destruction, to turn away from sinful practices that grieve His heart and embrace the path of righteousness.
III. The Promise of Security
God assures that if Israel heeds the call to return and removes the abominations, they "shall not be moved." This promise extends beyond physical security; it encompasses spiritual stability and a firm foundation in God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come before You, acknowledging our own tendencies to stray and cling to abominable practices. We thank You for Your gracious call to return and for the promise of stability and security in You. Give us the strength to put away anything that hinders our walk with You. Help us to turn fully back to You, finding our refuge and stability in Your presence. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
May this devotional serve as a reminder of God's loving call to return and the promise of stability and security found in Him. May you find refuge and strength in His presence as you turn away from anything that hinders your walk with Him.