Today’s Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind takes us deep into the heart of Jeremiah’s prophetic warnings. As the people of Judah continue their descent into idolatry and spiritual stubbornness, God issues a stark call for genuine change. Amidst the descriptions of a “den for robbers” and the “Queen of Heaven,” we find a beautiful clarity regarding what actually brings joy to our Creator. It isn’t the judgment itself that moves Him, but the opportunity for His people to truly understand and know Him.

Today’s reading is Jeremiah 7–11.

The message begins at the gate of the Lord’s house, where Jeremiah challenges the false security of those who trust in the Temple while living in rebellion. We see a heartbreaking picture of a nation that has forgotten how to blush at sin, worshiping wooden idols and ignoring the covenant of their ancestors. Jeremiah’s own grief pours out as a “fountain of tears” for his people. Yet, in the midst of this impending disaster, God distinguishes between the futility of man’s boasting and the value of knowing the living God who founded the world by His wisdom.

Entities: God, Jeremiah, Baal, Queen of Heaven, Judah, Jerusalem, Shiloh, Ephraim, Topheth, Ben-Hinnom, Egypt, Gilead, Zion, Dan, Tarshish, Jacob, Anathoth, John Backus Dykes, Anna Bartlett Warner

Why this episode matters: These chapters emphasize that religious rituals are worthless without a circumcised heart. We learn that God is not a distant, angry judge who delights in punishment; rather, He is a God of righteousness who must deal with sin but deeply desires to be found by those who seek Him. It reminds us that our only true boast should be our understanding of His character.

In Jeremiah 9, we find the core of today’s message. God warns us not to brag about our wisdom, our strength, or our riches. In a world that prizes status and achievement, God flips the script. He tells us that the only thing worth boasting about is having the understanding to know Him. This reveals a fundamental truth: God does not hide Himself. He wants to be known.

We also look at the nature of God’s judgment. While the text is heavy with warnings, we must realize that God brings wrath because He is holy. If He ignored cruelty and rebellion, He would not be God. However, His delight is found in kindness, fairness, and righteousness. He sent His only begotten Son to bridge the gap our rebellion created, proving just how much He wants us to spend eternity with Him.

Jeremiah 8:18 — “Lord, my heart is weak inside me. You comfort me when I’m sad.”

Read it in context here: Jeremiah 8 (BibleGateway)

January 23rd — The Music of Faith

In 1876, we look back to the passing of John Backus Dykes, an English clergyman and one of the most prolific composers of the Victorian era. His most enduring contribution is the tune Nicaea, the majestic melody we sing to “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty.” Also on this date in 1915, Anna Bartlett Warner passed away. In 1860, she wrote a simple poem to comfort a dying child in a novel; those lines became the world-famous hymn, “Jesus Loves Me, This I Know.”

Reference: John Backus Dykes (Wikipedia)

Today is National Pi Day. As Steve mentions, this feels a bit cruel when you’re still trying to lose that holiday weight! Whether you’re a fan of the mathematical constant or the flaky crust, it’s a lighthearted moment in the midst of a heavy prophetic reading.

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For more Scripture and grace, check out Verses We Missed.

Follow today’s reading here: Jeremiah 7–11 (BibleGateway)