"All The Known Facts Are Not All The Facts"

In Jeremiah 32:1-44, we see Jerusalem surrounded by Babylonian armies. Resistance was futile (Jeremiah 34:1-3; cf. 2 Kings 25:1-3). The prophet Jeremiah had already warned the leaders that the city would fall (Jeremiah 19:7). Now he languished in prison for prophesying the truth (Jeremiah 32:2).

Just as invasion was imminent, the Lord informed Jeremiah that one of his cousins was on the way to ask him to buy a piece of family property. God commanded Jeremiah to fulfill his cousin’s request (Jeremiah 32:6-8).

This was not a time to pay good silver for land that would soon be in the hands of the enemy! In fact, all of the known facts argued against this purchase. But history clearly shows us that “all the known facts are not all the facts.

Although puzzled at God’s request (Jeremiah 32:25), Jeremiah trusted God and bought the property (Jeremiah 32:9). The Lord assured him that despite the bleak outlook, the people would again own “houses and fields and vineyards” in the land (Jeremiah 32:15).

We often go through trying times. Paul tells us that all faithful Christians will endure persecution at one time or another in their lives (2 Timothy 3:12). Others attempt to rebuild their lives after natural disasters. Many live with disabilities and suffering, with little hope of recovery. The known facts are against them.

But God, who came down in the person of Jesus, is on our side. We have a hope that does not disappoint (Hebrews 6:10-20). Beloved, let us remember that “all the known facts are not all the facts.

Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets

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