Last Sunday, I preached a message by the same title as this article. I was preaching from Mark 4, where Jesus commanded the crowds, “Listen!”
Here we see God saying the same thing to the Israelites.
But here’s what I found interesting.
God said,
For as a belt is bound around the waist, so I bound all the people of Israel and all the people of Judah to me…to be my people for my renown and praise and honor. (Jeremiah 13:11a, NIV)
In the same way, we are called to be God’s people for his renown, praise, and honor.
But what was the problem with the Jews?
But they have not listened. (11b)
He explains further earlier in verse 10.
These wicked people, who refuse, to listen to my words, who follow the stubbornness of their hearts and go after false gods to serve and worship them, will be like this (ruined) belt–completely useless.
How about us? When people see us, do they praise and honor God? Do they themselves want to turn to God and become his people too?
We can only be a people for God’s renown, praise, and honor if we listen to him. If our hearts are soft to him.
So remember God’s words to the Jews. They are for us too.
Hear and pay attention, do not be arrogant, for the Lord has spoken. Give glory to the Lord your God… (Jeremiah 13:15)
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 