S – And in the thirty-seventh year of the exile of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the twelfth month, on the twenty-fifth day of the month, Evil-merodach king of Babylon, in the year that he began to reign, graciously freed Jehoiachin king of Judah and brought him out of prison. ³² And he spoke kindly to him and gave him a seat above the seats of the kings who were with him in Babylon

Jeremiah  52:31–32 ESV

O – Commentary:

Jehoiachin became the “firstfruits” of those in captivity in Babylon. In the 37th year of Jehoiachin’s exile (561–560 b.c.) Evil-Merodach became king of Babylon. As part of the festivities at the end of his accession year he released Jehoiachin … from prison on the 25th day of the 12th month (March 21, 560 b.c.). Jehoiachin was allowed to eat regularly at the king’s table. Just as Jeremiah’s prophecies of destruction had come true, so now his prophecies of future blessing were beginning. Jehoiachin’s favor gave hope to the exiles that God’s promised blessing and restoration would come

 Charles H. Dyer, “Jeremiah,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 1206.

A – God did exactly what he promised in the destruction and exile of Israel.  And…he did exactly what he promised in that the would begin again.  We need to recognize that God has season in our life for both blessing and challenge.  Neither will last longer than needed nor will they be exclusive in our lives.  Both happen to good, loving followers of Christ.  The questions we need to answer are –  What will our faith be in either season?  Will we step toward God or step back?

R – Heavenly Father, you are the Supreme God and you have no equal.  No matter the season we are in today, we choose to step toward you with full faith and trust.  We know that you are working for our good.  Thank you for loving us like you do today.