Redeemed TEXT: Jeremiah 31:1–14 Key Verse: “For the LORD - TopicsExpress

Redeemed TEXT: Jeremiah 31:1–14 Key Verse: “For the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he” (Jeremiah 31:11). Several years ago, there was a couple that worked as missionaries among an extremely primitive tribe in some remote island of the Pacific Ocean. It was such a backward tribe that cared not for their bodies but rather lived in filthy and repulsive environment. The missionaries refused to concentrate efforts to teaching hygiene to the people, but only preached to them to be clean on the inside by the blood of Jesus. This they did with much passion and prayer. When asked the reason for their blunt principles, they explained: “When a person is inwardly cleansed, the outward cleansing follows. Jesus makes the difference in anyone’s life.” Life had been difficult for the people of Israel. They languished and suffered severely in the land of their captivity all because of iniquity and continual disobedience to their Maker. Now, in our passage today, the promise of restoration comes from the Lord to His people. Though, Israel’s socio-religious life was destroyed, it shall revive again. Though the nation was brought down low and great afflictions and difficulties attended their way, there shall be deliverance. God will manifest Himself in the change that was coming to Israel for His faithfulness, loving kindness and unfailing love, but Israel must acknowledge her sin, and seek Him with supplication and true repentance. When Israel must have returned to true worship and to obeying God’s word, then life will become worth living. This same message remains true today. Your night can be turned into day. Your gloom can give way to brightness and joy, your humiliations to exaltation, and your failure to good success. Jesus will make the difference in your life if you will give your heart to Him. When He comes in, He will change your life for the better. One full step in genuine repentance and faith in Christ’s atoning blood will make heaven smile down at you. It is like you never sinned before. Experience joy! Confess your sins to Him and ask Him to come into your heart today. THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Only God can make a new life out of the old.