Jeremiah 3:6—4:4: The Call to Return
"COME BACK! COME back!" Whether called out to a small child, a rebellious teenager, a wandering spouse or even a straying pet, the words ring with desperation. Spoken by God to sinful humans, the words are heartbreaking. God the Creator allows his people the freedom of wandering from him. Still, he persists in calling them back to himself.
Warming Up to God
In what areas might the Lord be calling you back to a closer walk with him?
Read Jeremiah 3:6—4:4. »
Discovering the Word
- How had Israel been unfaithful to God (3:6-13)?
- What does God promise if only Israel will return to him (3:14-18)?
- What hopes did the Lord have for Israel (3:19-20)?
- How do the people express their repentance (3:21-25)?
- What warnings does God give Israel if they refuse to return to him (4:1-4)?
Applying the Word
- Where have you given in to the temptation to be unfaithful to the Lord? (Think especially of "small" ways easily overlooked or excused.)
- How do the Lord's promised blessings for repentance speak to you right now?
Responding in Prayer
Confess to the Lord any wanderings and rebellion against him. Thank him for his grace which keeps calling you back.
For Further Study
The Story of Israel by C. Marvin Pate et. al.