Today's story highlights the remnant of Judah's struggle for stability after Jerusalem's fall. Gedaliah, appointed governor, sought peace but was murdered, leading to chaos. Johanan's revenge worsened the situation, leaving the people torn between fleeing to Egypt or obeying Jeremiah’s warnings to stay and submit to Babylon.
STORY
Bible in a Year: Judah's Remnant
Scripture
If ye will still abide in this land, then will I build you, and not pull you down, and I will plant you, and not pluck you up: for I repent me of the evil that I have done unto you.

Jeremiah 42:10
Have you ever faced a situation where it seemed like every choice led to more conflict?

The story of Judah's remnant struggling for stability after the fall of Jerusalem is a powerful example of how turmoil can reveal the true nature of people’s hearts. When Gedaliah was appointed governor, he sought peace by negotiating with Babylon. His efforts, however, were met with betrayal and violence.

Gedaliah’s assassination by Ishmael, a friend turned enemy, plunged the remnant of Judah into further chaos. How do we respond when those we trust betray us?

Ishmael’s actions not only caused immediate turmoil but also set off a chain reaction. Johanan, in his quest for revenge, killed Ishmael, adding to the bloodshed and confusion. The people were left in a precarious position, unsure whether to flee to Egypt or stay and submit to Babylon, despite Jeremiah’s warnings.

Jeremiah’s consistent message was to stay in Judah and submit to Babylon, as this was God’s will for their survival and eventual restoration. Yet, fear and mistrust led many to flee to Egypt, seeking safety in their own understanding rather than God’s guidance.

How often do we seek refuge in our plans, ignoring divine wisdom?
REFLECTION
Examine the areas in your life where you face chaos and division. Are you seeking peace and unity, or are fear and mistrust driving your decisions?

Reflect on the story of Judah's remnant and the consequences of ignoring God’s guidance. Pray for the courage to make choices that align with God’s will, even when they are difficult.

PRAYER
“Yet a small number that escape the sword shall return out of the land of Egypt into the land of Judah, and all the remnant of Judah, that are gone into the land of Egypt to sojourn there, shall know whose words shall stand, mine, or their's.”
JEREMIAH 44:28
Dear God as You continue to elevate me to places of influence and leadership I ask that You give me a heart and ears to hear and heed when a man or woman of God has been sent into my life to protect me from the attack of the enemy. Unlike those in today's reading, I confess that my desire is to be in the complete and unwavering plan of The Lord. I confess that when I am given a word of warning or correction I will not allow pride and ego to respond to me. I will not run in the direction of what You freed me from in previous years, instead I will plant my feet firmly on the words of Your prophets and watch my life flourish and grow because I've learned to move and act at the sound of Your voice. I decree and declare that I am no longer a slave to my past…. but a servant to my future! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.