Satisfied!

Satisfied!

For I will [fully] satisfy the weary soul, and I will replenish every languishing and sorrowful person. Jeremiah 31:25 AMPC

The Inspiration:

As I read the verse above, I cast an eye over the verses just before this one. God has pronounced judgment upon Israel and Judah because of their sin of rebellion against his commands. They had been scattered across the nations of the world; many of them had died, yet God was making a promise of restoration, healing and revival. It is a reminder of God's standard when it comes to sin; God will punish sin no matter in whom it is found. God has no favourites when it comes to the issue of sin. Even his son Jesus bore the brunt of the Father's hatred of sin when He could not even look at his son as he hung on the cross. Thank God the full price of sin, which is death, has been paid, and I don't have to pay again. However, this sacrifice calls for a particular reaction from me, if I am to end up with the promise that has been made in the verse for today. 

The Contention:

For every weariness, God promises full satisfaction. For every languishing and sorrowful person, God promises replenishing and refreshing. It was God who scattered his people because of their sin, but He is also the one promising them a return to their own land. It would also mean that I am humble to know when I have strayed away from God and can quickly retrace my steps. If I do not admit that I need help, how do I go to God for help? If I do not admit that I cannot help myself, would I not become self-sufficient? Sin will eventually bring sorrow and pain to all who are under its control, even though it will bring temporary pleasure as you indulge in it. Today's focus makes it clear that I need to run away from sin in all its ramifications, and look to God for help. He is able to do all He has promised here, but He needs me to submit.

The Conclusion:

God will not force Himself on anyone. It is like an offer made by God in the Garden of Eden too, with man given the power to choose how he will respond to God's love. In the very place of God's mercy is also God's judgment on sin. In the place where God shows his love is also the place where he lays down the law on sin. I must embrace both sides of God if I am to have a healthy and proper relationship with Him. If He could punish Israel, his own chosen and loved people, the way He did, you know quite well that He will punish all unrepented sin. As I take stock of my life right now, the question then is: "Do I admit my need for God or am I seeking false independence"? There is no limit to the love of God for us, but we must come to Him with a repentant heart. He will take us, clean us up, and then launch us into a life of impact for Him. In and by Him alone can life be worth it. He waits for all of us. God's time of favour is here.