October 8

In Jeremiah 24, God gives Jeremiah a vision of two baskets of figs: one filled with good figs representing those who would submit to God’s discipline and live, and the other with bad figs representing those who rejected Him and would face judgment. In chapters 25–27, Jeremiah warns that submission to God’s will—even when it means surrendering to Babylon—was the only path to life. Though unpopular, his message called for humility before God rather than prideful resistance.

James 4 echoes this call. He warns that quarrels and strife arise from selfish desires, and that friendship with the world is enmity with God. But he also offers hope: God gives grace to the humble. When we submit to God, resist the devil, and draw near to Him, He draws near to us. Both Jeremiah and James point us toward the same truth: God desires hearts that are humble, surrendered, and aligned with His will, even when that path is hard.

These passages remind us that real strength is found not in resisting God’s discipline, but in bowing to His wisdom. Humility opens the door to His grace, peace, and restoration.

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