The Old Testament prophets were given illustrations in the messages they were to give to the people on behalf of the Lord. Here Jeremiah is shown two baskets of figs. One basket held very good figs, that had ripened early. The second basket held poor figs that couldn't even be eaten. What did these two baskets of figs represent in Jeremiah's day; and what application can we find for us today?
The good basket of figs, shows us how God feels about His people.
Even though He has to discipline us (as He did the nation of Judah) He still loves us, and wants His best for us.
God told Jeremiah: "Like these good figs, I regard as good the exiles from Judah whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians. My eyes will watch over them for their good , and I will build them up, and not tear them down. I will give them a heart to know Me, that I am the Lord. They will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with all their heart." (Verses 4-7)
Our great God, may have to break us of our pride, and selfishness, in order to restore us. He wants us to have a new heart towards Him, and His will for our lives.
The bad basket of figs were to show how God was displeased with the leaders of Judah. They led the people into severe disobedience, and because of that, God would bring judgment, as we see in (Verses 8-10)
When we disobey God, and worship other things instead of Him.
And when we participate in worldly, sinful activities, there will come judgment, You can count on that!.
The two baskets of figs, shows us, what are relationship with God should be, and want it is not to be. And the choice is ours.
Where are we, in the will of God for our lives? GP
Photo: ulleo /3983 images/Pixabay License/Free for commercial use/No attribution required/www.pixabay.com