God's Desire

Scripture:

Jeremiah 36:3  "Perhaps the people of Judah will repent when they hear again all the terrible things I have planned for them.  Then I will be able to forgive their sins and wrongdoings".

Observation:

Jeremiah had prophesied much disaster over and over to the people of Judah.  He was constantly telling them that their sins were going to be punished and that God was going to send the Babylonians to wipe them out.  In the midst of all these prophetic words about God destroying Judah is this simple text that tells us God's heart in what was coming.  "Perhaps they will repent... Then I will be able to forgive their sins and wrongdoings".  He was constantly hoping they would repent so that He didn't have to go through with their punishment.

Application:

God doesn't get pleasure out of punishing people.  His desire is always that people would repent of their sins and turn to Him so that He can forgive them and bless them.  We need to understand God's heart in judgment is always to forgive and restore.  When we understand His love for us, repentance should come easy.

Prayer:

Lord God, thank you for showing me your love and desire in the midst of your judgment.  You truly love Your people and desire to bless them, yet You are righteous and must judge sin.  Help me to walk in Your blessing and be quick to repent.  Help me to always run to You, knowing You are quick to forgive and bless.

Yours,
Jeff