Should you then seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them. For I will bring disaster on all people, declares the Lord, but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life. – Jeremiah 45:5
Baruch certainly suffered much for his faithfulness to God and Jeremiah. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Baruch was an educated man, qualified as a secretary, whose brother was an officer of high rank under Zedekiah (Jeremiah 51:59). As Jeremiah’s faithful partner and scribe, Baruch had to endure a great deal of opposition and abuse. Now he was exhausted and discouraged. Part of his disappointment seemed to come from seeking great things for himself. He probably wanted to be in a different place than where he found himself. And God had a word for him.
God wanted Baruch to turn away from his self-focused state and not obsess too much about his own perceived growth and success. God tells Baruch, not to seek great things for himself. He reminds Baruch, worldly power, fame and reputation will not last long. He was going to bring disaster on all the people. But God promises to take care of Baruch wherever he went.
Paul, in Philippians, reminds us not to seek anything out of self-ambition (Philippians 2:3). And yet Paul, Peter and even Jesus were ambitious men. The difference, however, is that they were ambitious for God’s glory and His name to be lifted.
God’s word to Baruch reminds us that we are to focus on and exalt God and not ourselves. The Bible says, for all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted (Luke 14:11).
What are you ambitious for?
Lord, I desire to be ambitious for you. Please help me I pray.
Extended Reading — Jeremiah 41-45
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