Jeremiah 42-24

What God said to me – My people have it all backward – they decide what they are going to do and then pray and ask Me to bless it when they should start by asking Me what they should do. It’s no wonder they lose faith because they have so few prayers answered. I promised to answer when you pray according to My will – not yours. No matter the circumstances you should always begin by praying and asking Me for direction. You can’t truly know how to pray for anything until you seek My will. Only when you have ascertained My will can you pray in faith. There will be times when I reveal My will in a matter and it is not what you want. When that happens rather than praying in vain for it anyway or trying to change My mind, pray for Me to change yours so your heart and mind align with Mine. This is where you can truly pray in faith.

Jeremiah 38-41

What God said to me – Like Jeremiah you live in a day where you are accused of causing harm by speaking My word.  My word has always been offensive to those who are not Mine because it is a light that reveals the darkness of their lives.  My word demands a decision.  It demands an action – accept or reject – obey or disobey – believe or don’t believe – change or remain in your sin.  To those who don’t believe or who have no desire to change it is offensive so they attack those who believe.  These attacks may be physical, but not always – they may attack your reputation or your character – you might lose a job or friends.  Whatever the cost – stand firm.  In the end you will hear Me say “well done” and your reward will be great.

Jeremiah 35-37

What God said to me – Reputation is important.  Are you known as a person who obeys My word and follows Me no matter what happens in your life or in the world around you?  Taking a stand and speaking up for the truth is difficult when no one else around seems to agree with you, especially when you are bombarded on every side.  So few of those who claim to be Mine actually listen and obey My word.  They are like someone who hedges his bets and plays both sides.  They want the eternal benefits of being Mine without the commitment and obedience that causes the world to turn on them so they water down and change My word so as not to be offensive.  You cannot straddle the fence and still please Me.  Choose you this day whom you will serve.