Jeremiah 15:16b
KJV: "...thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart..."
NKJV: "Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart."
Jeremiah 15:16 NCV
Your words came to me, and I listened carefully to them. Your words made me very happy, because I am called by Your name, LORD God All-Powerful.
THY WORDS… JOY AND REJOICING OF MINE HEART
Jeremiah was very different from the people in two ways.
First, He loved the word of the Lord; it was a joy and delight to his heart. One sure sign that we are children of God is our intense love for the inspired Word of God. Secondly, Jeremiah was loyal to God and His righteousness and because of that; his people did not like to hear God’s Word of warning to turn away from their sins and idolatry. Jeremiah separated himself from wicked people who continued to do their sinful actions. So Jeremiah became isolated and lonely. Jeremiah could not take part of any festive occasions because God was bringing judgment against Israel.
If you remember the story of King Nebuchadnezzar from Babylon and the armies had captured Jerusalem and the people. Why did this happen? Israelite did not love God’s Word and did not want to obey God’s warning. Then they were taken captive and carried away to Babylon for 70 years. Daniel read Jeremiah’s writing and Daniel prayed for His people to turn to the Lord. They returned home. They heard the Word of God from Ezra who read from the scroll. They repent. They changed their ways. They turned to the Lord and asked God to forgive them for the wicked ways. The people learn to love God’s Word and God blessed the Israel with Temple they rebuild and also Nehemiah helped to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
What does this apply to us?
Let us love the Word of God like Jeremiah loves the Word. It is important to study His Word. His Word influences us. His Word changes us. His Word put joy in our hearts. God put rejoicing in our heart when we read or study His Word. The Lord blessed those who love His Word. Hallelujah!
Prayer:
Dear Lord, help us to love Your Word….Thank You Holy Spirit for bringing the Word of God. Your Word is many things. Thank You for Your great blessings when we read Your Word. Thank you for rejoicing in our heart when we love Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.
