Jeremiah: Part 8

Message: In Hard Times (Jeremiah 37-38)

· God’s people had a spiritual problem. They didn’t care what God said. (Jer 37:1-2)

· Jeremiah is imprisoned and nearly killed for speaking God’s truths. (Jer 37:6-21; 38:1-13)

· Jeremiah was imprisoned until the Babylonians captured Jerusalem and then may have been stoned to death. (Jer. 38:28)

· Life is hard. There is a biblical response to suffering.

· 10 principles:

1. A life lived for God doesn’t exempt you from suffering.

2. Do not be surprised when suffering comes. Be prepared for it.

3. Never assume that suffering is due to sin in your life. (John 9; Job)

4. Nothing will ever touch you that does not first pass through God’s hands.

5. God will redeem your suffering. (Rom 8:28; Genesis 50:20; Jesus)

6. God uses suffering for our spiritual growth.

7. You do not have to know why you are suffering. (Prov 3:5-6)

8. God will be with you no matter what. (Matt 28:20; Psalm 23:4)

9. Rejoice and give thanks when you suffer. (James 1:2; Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:18)

10. Trust in the Lord with all your heart.

· God is going to see you through. God will have the final word and it will be good.

Questions

1. Our society is focused on political, economic, and financial problems. How, as Christians, do we view it as a spiritual problem? How does this change your response to hardship in your life or those around you?
2. What do you admire most about Jeremiah’s service to God and His people?
3. Which of the 10 principles resonates with you most? Is most surprising? The hardest to follow?
4. How have you applied any or all of the principles to suffering in your life?
5. In response to principle #9, which daily gripes will you turn to rejoicing and thanksgiving?