Jeremiah spoke to Judah, to men already dwelling in “this place. ” But they could not assume they would continue to dwell in the land of promise, and God tells them they will only continue there if they repent. For the oppression of the weak and for turning from the true God to idols, God threatens judgment. But if they would “amend their ways, ” that judgment could be averted.
And we pray:
The nation that sins and continually presses on in rebellion and iniquity, Lord, we know You will judge. Unless a nation amends its ways, or a man amends his ways, judgment becomes inevitable. Let us not forget the source of all our national and personal blessings, and let us not think we are guaranteed them. We trust in Your mercy, O Lord, and seek to turn our hearts to You. Amen.