The Anatomy of the Heart

In the early years of Jeremiah’s ministry, he was directed to call his apostate nation to repentance; his initial messages called his people to return to the Lord before GOD’s judgment fell upon them. But everything changed in chapter 7 when GOD said in verse 16, “Pray not thou for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for them, neither make intercession to me: for I will not hear thee.” In chapter 7, GOD reveals that this people (this generation) had crossed His deadline. GOD says in effect, “Enough. Their fate is sealed. They’ve spurned away My grace. They’ve refused to repent & seek Me while I may be found. And now they’re destined for destruction.” From that point forward Jeremiah’s preaching seemed only dark because all he could do was deliver messages which foretold of the nation’s impending doom & the devastating effects the people would suffer.