Even in the rebellion.
The Moabites had a long history of conflict with Israel, beginning with the sinful relationship between Lot and his daughter. Balak, king of Moab, hired Balaam to curse Israel, and for years Moab repeatedly opposed Israel. There was no love lost between the two nations. Now, the Lord proclaims judgment against Moab for its continued rebellion.
He uses a picture to describe their condition: "Moab has been at ease from his youth; He has settled on his dregs, And has not been emptied from vessel to vessel, Nor has he gone into captivity. Therefore his taste remained in him, And his scent has not changed. "Therefore behold, the days are coming," says the LORD, "That I shall send him wine-workers Who will tip him over And empty his vessels And break the bottles." Jeremiah 48:11-12
In those days, wine was stored in vessels and allowed to settle. Over time, sediment would sink to the bottom, and the wine would be carefully poured into another vessel to separate it from the dregs. This process helped refine the wine.
But Moab had remained undisturbed, settled in its pride and unchanged in its ways. Now the Lord declares judgment is coming.
Yet even in the midst of judgment, we see the goodness and mercy of God! In Jeremiah 48:47 the Lord promises a future restoration for Moab.
Even after generations of rebellion, His mercy is still evident. Consider RUTH! An example of His grace: A Moabite who turned to the Lord and was a part of the lineage of Jesus Himself!
What a reminder that God's grace reaches beyond our rebellion!
Some of us have already been defeated in our rebellion against the Lord. Others may still be running from His goodness. But His invitation still remains.
Take comfort in His goodness & faithfulness. Draw near to Him, and let your life reflect His grace to those around you. We never know who might be the next Ruth, turning from their old ways to follow Jesus.
For it is the goodness of God that leads us to repentance. Rom 2:4
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.