Always opposition.
Jeremiah is given the choice to remain with the people left in the land or go to Babylon. The Babylonians appoint Gedaliah as governor, and finally we see someone responding in accordance with what Jeremiah had been proclaiming from the Lord. Gedaliah tells the people to serve the Chaldeans and assures them that it will be well with them as they do.
Yet, even in the midst of this, opposition arises.
"Do you certainly know that Baalis the king of the Ammonites has sent Ishmael the son of Nethaniah to murder you?" But Gedaliah the son of Ahikam did not believe them." Jeremiah 40:14
There were still those who opposed the Lord's plans and the Lord's consequences. We need to be aware that while the Lord is working, there's always the enemy in opposition to His plans.
There were still those resisting what God was allowing and accomplishing through Babylon. Gedaliah was warned of the opposition, but he did not believe the warning.
The same principle reminds us that we should not be surprised when opposition comes as we seek to walk faithfully with the Lord. Scripture tells us that there is a real spiritual battle taking place. We have an enemy who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy, while Christ has come that we may have life.
Are you aware of the enemy of your soul?
We don't fight this battle in our own strength. We abide in Christ. We trust God's work in our lives. We pursue righteousness and peace. We stand secure in the salvation we have in Christ, and we take up the Word of God, the sword of the Spirit.
Awareness of the battle helps us remain prepared for the battle.
Be aware of the opposition, but keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.