In the turbulent chapters of Jeremiah 37 and 38 in our Daily Devotional, the prophet Jeremiah exemplifies unwavering commitment amidst adversity. Accused, imprisoned, and facing death threats, Jeremiah remains steadfast in delivering God’s message. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges inherent in fulfilling spiritual duty, prompting reflection on the trials endured in serving the divine will. To learn how we have the Book of Jeremiah today, read the Daily Devotional on Jeremiah 35 and 36.
What is Jeremiah 37 Talking About?
In chapter 37, Jeremiah confronts the brutal consequences of speaking unpopular truths. Despite accusations, beatings, and imprisonment, he boldly proclaims the impending judgment foretold by the Lord. Jeremiah’s resolute commitment challenges believers to consider their own steadfastness in the face of opposition.
In chapter 38, Jeremiah’s suffering reaches new depths as he is thrown into a cistern to sink into the mud. Yet, amid despair, an Ethiopian pleads for his life, showcasing the transformative power of compassion. Jeremiah’s unwavering commitment to God’s truth, despite impending doom for Jerusalem, underscores the enduring significance of standing firm in faith amidst adversity.
Jeremiah 37 and 38 Commentary by Allen J. Huth
In chapters 37 and 38 of the Book of Jeremiah, Jeremiah is accused of desertion, imprisoned, and some want him dead. Do you think you have it tough serving the Lord? Please read or listen to the twenty-one verses of Jeremiah 37 and the twenty-eight verses of Jeremiah 38.
In 2016, concerning these chapters, I wrote, “Stay the course. Jeremiah never weakens his message. He doesn’t bow to pressure. He stays consistent no matter who he’s talking to or what it may cost him. This is at least the second time he is beaten and imprisoned. Understandably, the officials want him put to death because his words over and over would weaken the resolve of the people to fight. Often truth is not popular, and it hurts. He gets a private audience with the king and doesn’t back down. As promised, God spares Jeremiah again.”
Doing God’s Will is Not Easy
Do you think doing God’s will in your life is easy? It was not very easy on Jeremiah. In chapter 37, Jeremiah is accused of desertion. He is beaten and put in prison. The king requests his presence from the dungeon. He “questions him secretly . . . ‘Is there any word from the Lord?’” (37:17). Jeremiah says, “There is . . . You shall be delivered into the hand of the king of Babylon” (37:17). Jeremiah does not back down. He cannot. He has the words of the Lord in him.
At the end of chapter 37, the king spares Jeremiah from going back to somebody Jeremiah thought would kill him. So Jeremiah remained in the court of the guard. Those officials hear Jeremiah, and they say he is discouraging the city. They too want to put Jeremiah to death. They cast him into the cistern and Jeremiah sinks into the mud. How low can it get when you are serving the Lord?
A foreigner, an Ethiopian, comes and pleads to the king to save Jeremiah’s life. The King allows Jeremiah to be raised from the pit. The king is desperate again, so he sends for Jeremiah. Jeremiah gives him the same message. Jerusalem is going to fall to the Babylonians.
Jeremiah 38:28
Jeremiah 38 ends with these words, “And Jeremiah remained in the court of the guard until the day that Jerusalem was taken” (38:28). Jeremiah never backed down from speaking God’s truth.
What kind of pressure are you under? Is your faith ridiculed by your friends or members of your family or your co-workers? If so, do you get quiet before them, or do you stand bold and proclaim the truth of your God?
Prayer to Boldly Do God’s Will
Lord, embolden us. Let us learn from Jeremiah to stand for Your truth. Even when his life was on the line, he did not compromise. Again Lord, embolden us to stand up for our Christian faith even when those around us ridicule us.