Read Jeremiah 50 – 52
For Israel hath not been forsaken, nor Judah of his God, of the LORD of hosts; though their land was filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel. Jeremiah 51:5 KJV
Here is a wonderful statement of assurance. Though the land of Israel was filled with sin against the Holy One, He had not forsaken them, God remained with them. They deserved to be forsaken, they continued in sin and rebellion against the Lord despite His goodness, mercy, and His warnings of judgment, but He had not forsaken them, He remained with them. Due to the severity of their punishment it may have seemed like He had left them, Jerusalem was destroyed and the people were taken into captivity, but they were not forsaken, God remained with them. Punishment, even severe punishment, is not the same as abandonment. Both the people of Israel and their enemies needed to understand this. God had not and would not forsake His people. No greater assurance could be given than the continuing presence of God. They had forsaken Him, but God had not forsaken Israel.
Lord, Your assurance to the people of Israel is an encouragement for You have made the same promise to every believer (2 Timothy 2:13; Hebrews 13:5). Your presence in our life is not based on our performance but Your promise. Thank You for the assurance that even when we fall You will not leave nor forsake us.
A question to ponder: Have you ever felt forsaken of God? What made you feel that way? How did the promise of God to never forsake you bring reassurance?
