SUMMARY: Simple math
OVERVIEW: Jeremiah warns Israel not to put their faith in a false religion or to think they could live hypocritical (“religious”) lives and get away with it. Instead, God wanted them to repent and trust him with their lives.
BIG IDEA: God wants us to obey him more than he wants us to serve him.
KEY VERSE: Jeremiah 7:23–24 (God to Jeremiah)
…but I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in obedience to all I command you, that it may go well with you. But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward and not forward.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Don’t be deceived. Being in my presence at church, being friends or relatives with my followers, or being around my works—even doing good works—will not save you. Many read the Bible and faithfully attend church or do other things that might convince them or others that they have a relationship with me. Those are good things, but they are not the same as surrendering their lives to me. That is what I desire from you and each person.
Don’t live any way you want during the week and then run to me on Sunday as a way to make things right, only to continue the pattern the following week. I love extending forgiveness. I enjoy showering people with grace and mercy. And it’s simple to receive that from me. But seek more. Lay down your life, and transfer the ownership of your life to me. Then walk with me. Obey me. I will teach you to live. You won’t get it perfect, but keep following me. I will help you.
NEXT STEP
Focus on your relationship with God today, not on what you do for God. God is more concerned with your heart. Take time today to slow down and be in his presence. Stop racing around and be still. Stand before God and commit your day and tasks to him. Ask for God’s help and guidance.
LYRIC VIDEO