Recollect What God Retains
Jeremiah 2:2
Am I as spontaneously benevolent towards God as I formerly was, or am I anticipating God's benevolence towards me? Am I filled with the minor joys that delight him, or am I lamenting due to my difficult circumstances? There is no joy in a soul that has neglected what God values. It is remarkable to consider that Jesus Christ requires my assistance—“Give Me to drink.” What amount of kindness have I demonstrated to Him in the previous week? Have I been considerate of His reputation throughout my life?
God conveys to His people: You currently adore Me, however I recall the period when you were devoted—“I remember…the love of thine espousals.” Do I possess the same fervent love for Jesus Christ as I had initially, when I made significant efforts to demonstrate my devotion to Him? Does He perceive my reminiscence of the period when I was indifferent to anything except Him? Have I arrived, or have I attained wisdom through my love for Him? Am I so enamored with Him that I disregard my destination? I am observing the respect I am owed and evaluating the extent of service I should provide.
If, upon reflecting on what God recalls about me, I discover that He is no longer the entity He once was to me, may this evoke shame and humiliation, for such humility will engender the godly grief that facilitates repentance.
Jeremiah 2:2 articulates:
*"Weep in the presence of Jerusalem: Thus declares the Lord: I recall the fervor of your youth, your affection as a bride, how you pursued me in the desert, in an uncultivated land."* English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse highlights several crucial points of emphasis:
1. **Divine Imperative to Recollect History**
God is imploring Israel to recall the initial phases of their relationship with Him. This is not merely a historical account but an invitation to contemplate their original commitment and affection for Him.
2. **The Commitment of Adolescence**
God emphasizes the "devotion of your youth," representing a period of innocence, fervor, and vitality in the connection with Him. In this context, youth symbolizes the nascent phases of Israel's faith and dedication, characterized by enthusiasm and authenticity.
3. **The Affection of a Bride**
The analogy of Israel's devotion to God as akin to that of a bride underscores intimacy, exclusivity, and covenant fidelity. This imagery illustrates that Israel was formerly in a devoted and affectionate relationship with God, characterized by fervor and fidelity.
4. **Pursuing God in the Wilderness**
Israel's fidelity is characterized as following God "in the wilderness," representing a period of complete reliance on God for sustenance and direction. The desert signifies a phase of trial, while simultaneously serving as a season of proximity to God, during which they encountered His direct guidance.
5. **An Uncultivated Territory**
The phrase "a land not sown" may suggest divine provision in an uninhabited or barren location. Israel encountered God's fidelity and direction even under challenging or desolate conditions. This also highlights the extraordinary character of their adventure across the woods.
6. **An Appeal to Reexamine Fidelity**
The phrase implicitly challenges Israel to revert to their initial fervor and revive the devotion they once held for God. The text indicates that God recalls their initial commitment and wishes for them to revert to that complete devotion.
### Reflection/Application - **Personal Devotion**: Similar to Israel's appeal to recall their foundational devotion, contemporary believers might contemplate their original fervor and dedication to God, evaluating ways to restore a more dynamic relationship with Him.
- **Divine Fidelity**: The poem underscores God's unwavering fidelity, particularly during arduous or desolate periods. Contemplating how God has directed and supplied us during our "wilderness" experiences might enhance our faith in Him.
- **Covenant Relationship**: The metaphor of a bride underscores the profound, intimate connection that God seeks with His people. It urges believers to reflect on the intimacy and exclusivity of their relationship with God, promoting fidelity and love towards Him.
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