What makes Judah different from all the other nations? Are there ANY differences? They worship idols. They fornicate. They do all manner of wickedness. They do not help widows and orphans and those in need. What is the difference?
Why did God twice tell them He was ordering a mighty punishment, but (Jeremiah 5:10), "do not execute complete destruction" and (Jeremiah 5:18), "even in those days I will not make you a complete destruction"? Why is God not going to completely destroy this rebellious people? He did completely destroy other nations who turned against Him and His ways, so why spare Judah?
The ONLY difference between Judah and the people 'round about them was a special covenant God made with them. They were His people and He was their God. Even when they were unfaithful, God was faithful. God would leave a remnant (Jeremiah 5:19) so one day they might come to their senses and repent.
I often find personal application in God's dealing with the nation of Judah. I asked myself today, what makes ME different from the "nations 'round about"? The ONLY difference is that I have a relationship with God. I am one of His people and He is my God. Even when I am unfaithful, He is faithful to His word in everything. God punishes those who He loves (Hebrews 12:6), and He will punish me when I fall out of line. But He is patient with me, His child, and will work to bring me to repentance through the brethren and possibly through circumstances in my life.
How wonderful to people the people of God! Let us take a lesson from Judah and BE FAITHFUL to our God. Let us strive to keep ourselves in the Way paved by our Creator.
Nathan