Do you think all it takes is for you to run back to Me this house, which is called by My name and say "We're safe now?" Does this somehow make it all right to do vile things in front of Me? Do you think this house, which is called by My name, is a den of thieves? I see what you're doing.
Observation
(From the Voice) One of the most important and difficult messages Jeremiah ever delivers is given at the entrance to the temple. In the seventh century, the problem isn't that people are refusing to worship, for the crowds continue to form at the temple in Jerusalem, but they are embracing a superficial form of worship. They are acting as if their motives don't matter; their immoral behavior seems to be little or no concern. As long as they have the temple - with it's rituals and rich history - they believe they are immune to anything. As long as they have the building in their midst, they seem to think they have God - as if He could be contained in this beautiful and storied structure.
Imagine the scene as the bold prophet speaks to the crowds streaming into the temple area. Imagine how startling these words sound to people who think religious activity and merely showing up at the temple will protect them.
Application
I am certainly guilty of being busy with religious activity, yet having a heart far from God. God is so good to make sure I never drift too far. A few years ago I asked him to make sure that I never became a hypocrite, I knew that if left alone to my own devices I would be a judgmental hypocrite in a heartbeat, so I needed God to take over. He is faithful and has delivered me time and time again from impure heart motives that make it all about me instead of Him.
My heart motive is so important as a worship leader. How can I direct others to the heart of God, when my own is far from Him? I have to continually ask God to examine my motives, reveal any hurtful way within me, turn from that way and follow Where He leads.
Prayer
Father, I know in me I am just like those worshipping at Your temple in Jeremiah's day. I am selfish, prideful, rebellious, and judgmental, but You are always good and Your goodness lives in me. Please examine my heart motives before I lead others in worship today, I want to have a heart completely turned to You!
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