THE SWORD WILL DRINK. Jeremiah 46:10;48:42-44; 1 Peter 5:5.

Jeremiah was an announcer of God’s judgment. He carried the burden of difficult messages. Why did God need an announcer? Why not just destroy the bad guys? Because God is merciful; He warns us so we can change. Most don’t—but some do, and God forgives.

One of those messages of judgment was for Egypt:

“The sword will devour and be satisfied; it will drink its fill of their blood.” Jeremiah 46:10.

What powerful imagery! The sword will drink its fill of their blood? That kind of memorable writing ranks the Bible among the world’s greatest literature.

Then Jeremiah announces judgment on Moab, the nation descended from Lot. They are cousins to the Jews. Like the Edomites (descendants of Esau), the Moabites once knew the One True God. But they sinned:

“Moab will be destroyed … because he has EXALTED HIMSELF against the Lord. Panic, Pit, and Trap await you, resident of Moab…. He who flees from the panic will fall in the pit, and he who climbs from the pit will be captured in the trap.” Jeremiah 48:42-44.

Moab will be destroyed because of PRIDE.

But what about us? Is pride that harmful? What does the New Testament say? James says, “God is OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, but gives grace to the humble” 4:6. And Peter writes, “you younger men, be subject to your elders; … for God is OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, but gives grace to the humble” 1 Peter 5:5.

Be humble. OR? Or be prepared for God to be opposed to you. I don’t know about you, but I do NOT need the God who created the universe to be OPPOSED to me! There is enough working against me. I need God to be FOR me! I do not want to see His sword waiting to drink its fill.

God, make us humble. We want to be on your side, not opposed to you. Change our hearts and fill them with humility toward everyone, especially toward YOU. Give us a humble and teachable spirit.

ΑΩ