Jeremiah's questions and God's answers: a reflection on Jeremiah 12
The book of Jeremiah is a poignant testimony of the relationship between a prophet and his God. In the Chapter 12Jérémie expresses his doubts, his frustrations and his questions in the face of the prosperity of the bad guys and the suffering of the righteous. This chapter invites us to explore the depths of the faithfrom the Divine Justice and confidence in Godeven when circumstances seem incomprehensible.
Jeremiah exercises his ministry in a difficult context. The kingdom of Judah is in spiritual and moral decline, despite the king's reforms Josias. The people turned away from God, and Jeremiah, as a prophet, is often rejected and persecuted, even by their own family. In this chapter, Jérémie dares to ask bold questions to God, reflecting his distress in the face of apparent injustice in the world.
Jeremiah's questions
- Why do the bad guys thrive?
Jeremiah begins by confessing the justice of God, but he cannot help asking: ” Why is the path of bad guys prosperous? Why do all the treacherous live in peace? (Jeremiah 12: 1). He observes that the bad guys seem flourishing, while the righteous suffers. This question still resonates today, because we often see injustices in the world. - Why does God not judge the bad guys?
Jeremiah pray that God act against the bad guys: ” Remove them like sheep that we must slaughter, and prepare them for the day of carnage! (Jeremiah 12: 3). He is disturbed by the apparent impunity of the bad guys and their contempt for God. - Why does creation suffer because of the sin of men?
Jeremiah notes that the land is in mourning because of the wickedness of the inhabitants. The animals and the birds perish, and the drought strikes the country. He wonders how long this situation will last (Jeremiah 12: 4).
God's responses
- A call for perseverance
God responds to Jeremiah by encouraging him to prepare for even greater trials: ” If you run with pedestrians and they tire you, how can you fight with horses? (Jeremiah 12: 5). This answer underlines that the life of faith requires resilience and confidence in Godeven in adversity. - A reminder of divine justice
God reveals that he abandoned his inheritance (Israel) because of their rebellion. However, he also promises to judge the neighboring nations who have oppressed his people. This answer shows that God is just And that he acts according to his perfect timing (Jeremiah 12: 7-13). - A promise to restore
Despite the judgment, God promises to restore his people and even the surrounding nations if they turn to him: ” And if they learn the ways of my people, if they swear by my name, saying: “The Lord is alive!”, Then they will enjoy happiness in the midst of my people (Jeremiah 12:16). This promise illustrates the grace and the mercy of God.
Weekly advice: learn from Jeremiah 12
This chapter teaches us to trust God, even when we do not understand his ways. Here is a practical advice for this week:
- Persevere : Like Jeremiah, you can go through difficult times. Instead of discouraging yourself, remember that God is with you and that he is preparing for greater challenges.
- Entrust your questions to God : It is normal to ask questions to God. Like Jeremiah, express your doubts and frustrations in prayer. God listens and responds according to his wisdom.
- Wait with hope : Even in dark moments, God has a restoration plan. Keep your hope in him because he is faithful to his promises.
Jeremiah 12 invites us to a deep and authentic faith, where we can ask our questions to God while trusting him. May this chapter inspire you to perseverehas seek God in the test and at Hope in his justice and restoration.
Do not hesitate to share your reflections or questions in the comments!
