A Word to the Wise

Nº 418

God always gives His best to those who leave the choice with him. - Jim Elliot

Baruch was an amazing, but little-known Old Testament figure. He was highly educated and deeply connected within the national political network. His brother, Seraiah, held a high office in the court of King Zedekiah. His grandfather had been ruler of Jerusalem during the reign of King Josiah. Baruch’s pedigree qualified him well to serve as Jeremiah’s aide.

But being an aide to a prophet falls short of being a national political insider. Baruch filled a significant post, but his family’s expectations ran very high.

The Lord gave Jeremiah some sound advice to pass along to Baruch – and to us. Say to him,

This is what the Lord says, I will overthrow what I have built and uproot what I have planted. . . Should you seek great things for yourself? Seek them not. For I will bring disaster on all people. . . but wherever you go, I will let you escape with your life (Jeremiah 45:4-5).

God reminded Baruch that He was in control and that Baruch’s job was to faithfully serve the Lord regardless of title or world’s perception. God promised to protect Baruch to the end and to provide what he needed along the way. Good reminders for us as well.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President