God's Glory Church

“If you, Israel, return,” says the Lord, “you will return to Me.” — Jeremiah 4:1
My friend broke his marriage vows. It was painful to watch him destroy his family. Seeking reconciliation with his wife, he turned to me for advice. I told him he had to offer more than just words; he must be active in showing love to his wife and at the same time remove any manifestations of sin.

The prophet Jeremiah gave similar advice to those who broke their covenant with God and followed other gods. It was not enough to simply return to Him (Jer. 4:1). They also needed to back up their words with actions. This meant rejecting “your abominations” (v. 1). Jeremiah said that if people swear by “truth and justice and justice”, then God will bless the nations (v. 2). The problem was that people were making empty promises. Their hearts were far from it.

However, God does not need words, He needs our hearts. The Lord Jesus said: “Out of the heart the mouth speaks” (Mt. 12:34). This is why Jeremiah continues to encourage those who listen to him to prepare the soil of their hearts and not to sow among thorns (Jer. 4:3).

Unfortunately, like many other people, my friend did not heed sound biblical counsel and ended up ruining his marriage as a result. When we sin, we must confess it and turn away from sin. God does not need empty promises. He likes a life that really agrees with His will.

In what areas of life do your words not match your actions? What behavioral principles do you need to change?
Heavenly Father, forgive me for not always doing what I believe.
Author: Matthew Lucas