Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule:
Jeremiah 47-52
The Philistines never played a major role in world history, but they were a “thorn in the side” of the Israelites. These “great uncircumcised enemies of Israel” made their first appearance in biblical history during the days of Abraham. They then settled in southwest Canaan. In the early days of Israel’s history in Canaan, the Philistines were a formidable enemy They were finally brought under control by David. In Jeremiah’s day the Philistines were not a dangerous threat. But they were always a potential “blockade” for anyone wishing to go from the north or east to Egypt for military conquest.
Here in Jeremiah 47:1, Jeremiah may have been referring to an attack that Pharaoh might have made after killing Josiah at Megiddo on his way to the battle of Carchemisch. However, Jeremiah also could have referred to a later attack when Egypt met Nebuchadnezzar and defeated him so severely that the Babylonian king retired to his own country to recoup his army. Whatever the specifics, in verse four, we find God’s purpose in sending the Babylonians and how they fit into God’s redemptive purposes. Jeremiah championed the cause of Babylon not because he favored this nation or approved of their goals in history. Rather, he had become convinced God’s will for the present was that Babylon shape the affairs of international history, including Israel’s fate. At a later time God would deal with Babylon; however, this nation was His servant to accomplish His will for His people.
Jeremiah probably chose Gaza and Ashkelon for special mention as representative of the five-city coalition and thus of the nation. Shaving the head and cutting oneself were symbols of mourning, signifying shame and humiliation. Jeremiah pictured the Philistines crying out to the Lord and begging Him to stop punishing them; however, he informed them that this was indeed God’s will. Sin will receive its proper punishment. The people protested against the sword of the Lord. They refused to look within themselves and see their true fault or repent of their unfaithfulness. May we always remember that those who seem to get away with their sin, will one day be punished appropriately. But may this also serve as a warning to us that we cannot sin and win.
Prayer Requests:
Personal
- Lord, please help me to never get discouraged over the fact that the wicked seem to prosper, knowing you have it all under control.
- Lord, please help me to never forget that sin brings its own price tag.
- Lord, please help me to strive to remember to pray for those who are marching toward distruction.
Political
- Senator Dan Lauwers – District 025 – Brockway Twp.
- US Representative Brenda Lawrence – District 14 – Southfield
- Representative Eric Leutheuser – District 058 – Hillsdale