Quiet Time : backsliding

Whoa boy. Started reading Jeremiah this morning. Prophetic, and of course mirroring my own sin in my life. That's the thing about the Bible (it being God's Holy Word)... According to the Ryrie Study Bible introduction, Jeremiah was a reluctant yet faithful prophet. And let me tell you, if you've ever been a backslider, then these verses will pierce your heart! However, as I was reading this, it became clear to me how I am still prone to backslide, because I am deceived by my own heart and this fallen world. I praise God for His mercy - I thank Him for keeping me - I pray I never stray again.

Jeremiah 2:11 (KJV)

Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit.

Idolatry.

Jeremiah 2:21-25 (KJV)

21Yet I had planted thee a noble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thou turned into the degenerate plant of a strange vine unto me?
22For though thou wash thee with nitre, and take thee much soap, yet thine iniquity is marked before me, saith the Lord GOD.
23How canst thou say, I am not polluted, I have not gone after Baalim? see thy way in the valley, know what thou hast done: thou art a swift dromedary traversing her ways;
24A wild ass used to the wilderness, that snuffeth up the wind at her pleasure; in her occasion who can turn her away? all they that seek her will not weary themselves; in her month they shall find her.
25Withhold thy foot from being unshod, and thy throat from thirst: but thou saidst, There is no hope: no; for I have loved strangers, and after them will I go.

Backsliding.

Jeremiah 2:34 (KJV)

Also in thy skirts is found the blood of the souls of the poor innocents: I have not found it by secret search, but upon all these.

Just found this interesting. Click here for a commentary.

Jeremiah 3:14-15 (KJV)

14Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion:
15And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

I'm grateful for where God has brought me; literally and spiritually. :)