Day 277
Jeremiah 2:31-4:18; Colossians 1:1-20; Psalm 76:1-12; Proverbs 24:21-22
Dance With the Prince
We’ve all heard the expression, “Dance with the one who brought you.” Why? Because the consequences of not doing so can be severe, and it is the right thing to do! God has brought the Israelites into the Promised Land through countless mighty acts of power and grace because of His infinite love. Yet once again, they are turning to false gods and idols. Jeremiah uses the analogy of an adulterous spouse to describe Israel’s unfaithfulness. The language gets a bit harsh, and why shouldn’t it? How often do we consider that disobedience to God is as hurtful to Him as adultery is to a spouse?
Why would we go to the dance with the Prince Himself (“the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation… for whom all things were created.” – Col. 1:15-17) and leave with a thief and a liar? Truly, we should fear the consequences of such behavior. (“… Fear the LORD and the king, and do not join with those who do otherwise.” – Pro. 24:21)
Psalm 76 makes it clear that God wants us to know Him, trust Him, fear Him, and obey Him*. God has given us the only perfect gift suitable for the entire world, the Gospel, His Word, His Son. Christ Himself has brought you to the dance. Stay and dance with Him only!
Cade Pope
*See also: Warren Wiersbe, The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: Complete Set (Colorado Springs: David C. Cook, 2007).