If only they had stood in My presence and heard My voice, then they would have spoken My words to My people! They would have turned this nation back from its evil ways and evil deeds.
Observation
The false prophets did the following according to chapter 23:
Scattered God's flock
Failed at giving His sheep care
They were negligent
They pawned their words off as God's
They inspired and encouraged people to sin
They promised peace for acts of evil, even though God promises destruction for evil.
They never asked God what He wanted, they never paid attention to His word, they never sought the Lord's presence!
Because of that they have broken God's heart. He says in verse 9 that deep in His chest, God's heart is broken. There is nothing worse then breaking the heart of God, which by the way, I know I have done.
Application
No one ever thinks of themselves as a false prophet, yet the bible promises us that more and more false prophets will appear. These verses offer guidelines on how to see if you are really caring for God's people or just for yourself. I understand the difficulty. People don't want to hear that their choices are leading them on a path of destruction. They want to hear peace and prosperity. Jeremiah is the only brave one that stands up and even he considers the message a burden. This is why James tells us that not many of us should want to become teachers.
It all comes down to pleasing God or people. I know in me I will choose people every time if I don't seek the presence of God passionately! I don't want God to use an "if only" statement when He talks of me.
Prayer
Father, I'm so grateful that Your presence aligns me with Your will. I confess that I am weak minded and unfaithful, but You are greater in me each day. I choose to please You, to seek Your presence and will above all else. Please help me to lead others to You, speaking Your truth even when it feels like a burden. I love You!
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