Todays readings… 1 Kings 21, Jeremiah 48, 1 Corinthians 7

            We have 3 long, interesting and challenging readings today, they are examples of the challenge to get our minds around the words God has caused to be written and preserved. When we do this we get the full picture of God at work, his mercy and forbearance, what he allows and what he condemns, it is a lifetime study.   

            In 1 Kings 21 we see the LORD’s mercy on Ahab, that though “There was none who sold himself to do what was evil in the sight of the LORD like Ahab… [v.25] that “when Ahab heard those words” of judgement from God ,,, and fasted and lay in sackcloth and went about dejectedly”[v.27] the LORD said to Elijah, “Because he has humbled himself before me, I will not bring the disaster in his days…” [v.29]

            In Jeremiah, we see how he is caused to prophecy against Moab; it had been a prosperous and helpful country, remember how David took his parents for protection to the king of Moab (1 Sam. 22 v.3,4)  But, we read today how the LORD caused Jeremiah to say ch. 48 verse 2 – “the renown of Moab is no more”, then in v. 7, “because you trusted in your works and your treasures, you also shall be taken.”

            Nations and people trust in similar things today!  But what about Moab?  It appears to have been to the east of the southern part of the Dead Sea, an area allotted to the tribe of Reuben.  Today it forms a significant part of the nation of Jordan and its’ present relationship with Israel is intriguing! 

            Our chapter ends significantly, “Yet I will restore the fortunes of Moab in the latter days, declares the LORD.” Verse 19 is intriguing; Aroer was a town in Moab/Jordan, the verse says, “Stand by the way and watch, O inhabitant of Aroer” – That is what we must do today in these “latter days” to see how the jigsaw pieces of prophecy fit together!

            Our chapter 7 in 1st Corinthians also makes a fascinating study; Paul makes a multitude of points about the sanctity of marriage.  Paul states that ” God has called you to peace.” [v.15]. “Peace” in believing and behaviour is what we all seek, but to achieve this is a real challenge, especially in our increasingly godless “latter days”.  Let us all, “Stand by the way and watch” how God is at work in these “latter days.”