Scripture
For this is what the Lord Almighty, the God if Israel says: Houses, fields and vineyards will again be bought in this land.
Observation
Babylon is besieging Jerusalem. Jeremiah is in prison for prophesying judgement against Judah. Jeremiah had prophesied that King Zedekiah will be handed over to the enemy.
When questioned about this, Jeremiah recounts how the Lord had led him to purchase a field from his cousin because of the promise of God that land would once again be bought and sold.
Application
Prophets have no alternative but to speak the word of the Lord. If God's message seems to be bad news they must not hold back. The prophet cannot be responsible for the content of the message, only for its delivery.
Likewise, pastors and teachers must sometimes bring hard words to their listeners. We must comfort the afflicted, but at times also afflict the comfortable.
Regardless of this, we must always endeavour to bring the full counsel of God, whether this is well received or popular or rejected and unpopular.
Prayer
Father, help me to hear your word whether this is comfortable to me or not. Amen.
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