Jeremiah 14:1-9 - Our sins testify against us

14:1-6

The coming invasion was not the only calamity to hit the land, there was a period of drought as well. These verses give a graphic description of the effect of this on everyday life. God speaks to our imagination as well as to our intellect. He wants us to get a graphic picture of the situation. We should also note that “natural” events are seens as God’s direct action. This does not mean the laws of physics do not apply! They do, they were created by God as part of the whole of creation, but events that happen can also be part of His decree. 

14:7-9

Jeremiah knew that all this was happening because “our sins testify against us”, yet he still calls on God to “do something for the sake of your name”. Jeremiah confesses the sins of the nation on the nation’s behalf. He appeals to God’s character and His relation to Israel. Yet God seemed “like a stranger”, He seemed to be far off. We often say God is in control and is never taken by surprise (all of which is true), yet it seemed as if these things were not true.