Today we read of three men who faced death threats. They each responded differently.
Uriah
They threatened Uriah and he left the country. Unfortunately, he left the people and protection God had set up for him.
Jeremiah 26:21, “And when Jehoiakim the king, with all his mighty men and all the officials, heard his words, the king sought to put him to death. But when Uriah heard it, he was afraid and fled and went into Egypt.” Modern English Version
Jeremiah
People said they would kill Jeremiah, (see Jeremiah 26:8, 11; 36:26). But God sent men to help him.
Jeremiah 26:24, “Nevertheless the hand of Ahikam the son of Shapan was with Jeremiah, with the result that he was not given into the hands of the people to put him to death.” Modern English Version
* * * * * * *
Jeremiah 36:19, “Then the officials said to Baruch, ‘Go hide, you and Jeremiah, and let no man know where you are.’ ” Modern English Version
Baruch
He was afraid, but he stayed with Jeremiah and God gave him his life as booty in all the places where he went.
Jeremiah 45:5, “…For I will bring disaster upon all flesh, says the Lord, but I will give your life to you as booty in all the places where you go.” Modern English Version
The place where you live now is under God’s protection. He places you where he wants you and puts people around you to help you. More importantly, you are there to help the people around you.
David ran from king Saul for 15 years. Saul never caught him. At one point, David and his men were escaping on a mountain. Saul and his men were closing in on the other side of the mountain. They had almost caught up when Saul received a message that there was a Philistine attack. He abandoned the chase to go fight the Philistines, (see 1 Samuel 23:24-28). They named the place the “Rock of Escape.”
After the battle with the Philistines, Saul heard David was in the Wilderness of Engedi. He took 3000 men to find David. Saul went by some sheep pens and noticed a cave there. He went into the cave to relieve himself. David and his men were hiding in the back of the cave. David was able to sneak up to Saul, cut a corner of his robe off, and Saul never knew, (see 1 Samuel 24:1-22).
Keep moving, but don’t flee. Look out for your brothers and sisters in Christ. Stick close to the man who speaks the words of God. Don’t be afraid. When God hides you, no one can find you.
Jeremiah 36:26, “But the king commanded Jerahmeel the son of Hammelech, and Seraiah the son of Azriel, and Shelemiah the son of Abdeel to seize Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet. But the Lord hid them.” Modern English Version
©2009-2017 frugalfish.org. All rights reserved.
Twitter – @frugalfishorg
Facebook – Frugal Fish
This Year's Bible Reading Guide 