Knowing and Showing
(2 Kings 23:29-36)
(2 Chronicles 35:20-25; 36:1-5)
(Jeremiah 22:10-17)
Jesus and the Poor Leper
The Old Testament prophet Jeremiah spoke directly to the people of God, proclaiming the Word of the Lord. Among the targets of these teachers were priests and religious leaders. Jeremiah exhorted them to honesty, humility and true devotion to the Lord.
The prophet called people to care for others, particularly those in need, even as the Lord Himself cares most tenderly for those who know their state of need.
"’Does it make you a king
to have more and more cedar?
Did not your father have food and drink?
He did what was right and just,
so all went well with him.
He defended the cause of the poor and needy,
and so all went well.
Is that not what it means to know Me?’
declares the Lord.
‘But your eyes and your heart
are set only on dishonest gain,
on shedding innocent blood
and on oppression and extortion.’"
(Jeremiah 22:15-17, NIV, emphasis added)
What does it mean to know the Lord? If we truly know Him, how will our attitudes and our actions reflect the level of intimacy we enjoy with the living God?
Will we build bigger barns, accrue additional assets and find fabulous financial fortune? Or will the Lord’s abundant provision in our lives take a different form altogether?
Will you pray with me?
Jehovah Jireh,
You are the Provider.
You know our every need.
You know the needs of those around us.
Teach us to trust You.
Spur us to serve You.
Reform our hearts,
So they reflect Your heart.
We live to know You.
Amen.
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