The Eternal, Commander of heavenly armies and God of Israel, has this message for you and your families: "Because you obeyed your ancestors Jonadab and faithfully followed his instructions for all these years, I promise that Jonodab (son of Rechab) will always have descendants who serve me"
Observation
Babylon is attacking Judean towns outside of Jerusalem. The nomadic clan known as the Rechabites have run to the the city of Jerusalem for refuge. The Rechabites are simple people, whose customs are not suited for city lifestyle. However, their faithfulness to their customs are held up as an example to Jerusalem and cause the clan to be blessed by God.
Application
God desires obedience more than sacrifice and the story of the Rechabites are an example of this desire. I was lead to reflect on why the Rechabites remained obedient to the custom of their ancestors while the rest of the Israelites didn't; what made them different? If these verses the name Jonadab in particular stands out. It seems to me that the Rechabite ancestors did an outstanding job of stressing the importance of obedience to their children and grandchildren; so much so that when the temptation to do differently came against them they were able to stand. Jonadab specifically is honored by God. That same blessing can be mine to, if I diligently train my children up in the Lord's ways.
Prayer
Father, thank You for the Rechabite example in Your word today. I long to plant those same seeds in my children. Although I am willing, I need Your Spirit to make these seeds grow, for I am nothing without You. May my children grow up in Your word and remain faithful to follow them all the days of their lives.
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