Return to God

Any time is the right time to repent and return to God!

“The LORD said to me, ‘Faithless Israel has proved herself to be more righteous than treacherous Judah. Go and proclaim these words toward the north and say, “Return, faithless Israel,”’ declares the LORD.”—Jeremiah 3:11–12 NASB

Israel had been “faithless.” They had “perverted their way” and “forgotten the LORD their God” (v. 21). As a result, their leaders deceived them; they faced economic troubles and countless problems. But God was eager to bless them. He was gracious and would not look upon them in anger.

God promised to give them shepherds after His own heart who would feed them knowledge and understanding. Instead of financial lack, they would experience abundance. They would not “walk anymore after the stubbornness of their evil heart” but would realize He had given them “a pleasant land, the most beautiful inheritance” (v. 17, 19).

For these promises to be fulfilled, God required repentance. And as God repeated three times in this chapter, they needed to “return.”

If God’s people returned, they would call Him “My Father” and not turn away (v. 4). He would heal their faithlessness. They would see they had followed the wrong path and wrong leaders and realize they could find salvation only in Him.

How easily we can be like Israel—forgetting about God, and going our own way. But God beckons us, “Return to Me!”

Today, no matter who you are or what you’ve done, humble yourself before God. Confess your sins. Declare that Jesus is your Lord. Seek His wisdom. Dedicate your life to serving Him faithfully.

Reflection Question: Write a prayer of national repentance.