This is what the LORD says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, “We will not walk in it.” Jeremiah 6:16 (Jeremiah 5 & 6)
This flat out refusal to follow God’s law left the Creator of all things with no choice but to judge and punish. The depravity of these people was universal and they were ecstatically content with their self authority. Jeremiah compares them to animals who eat with no regard for other’s need and who breed out of random opportunity and lust rather than love and choice. Ignorance will exempt no one when the armies of Babylon do their worst, everyone will perish of be taken captive.
Some of the people attempted empty, elaborate offerings, to appease The One True God in the same manner that they paid homage to their idols. God was quick to respond: Offerings mean nothing without a repentant heart, a humble attitude and a determination to walk in the Good Way.
That rest for the soul is what it’s all about! Peace in the present and future is an option I like!
Love,
Gretchen