Jeremiah 48:10 – “Cursed be the one who does the LORD’s work negligently…”

As I read, prayed, and mused on the Word of God today, I sensed a sternness of the Holy Spirit and yet a heart yearning to release more.  A sternness?  Yes! Jeremiah 48:10 stopped me in my tracks. “Cursed be the one who does the work of the LORD negligently…” That linked back to Jeremiah 45:4, “Behold, what I have built I am about to tear down, and what I have planted I am about to uproot…”

Two thoughts immediately flooded my consciousness. Just because God blessed and established something does not allow for negligence or half-heartedness.  His blessings are not unconditional.  He demands our full commitment and surrender. He accepts nothing less.

That is amplified in Matthew 25 in two accounts.  The Ten Virgins highlights the requirement of being vigilant in commitment and current in relationships. The account of the two groups being judged and rewarded also provides understanding.

If Christ is our life and has first place in our hearts, we are never the focus; others are! We serve others in serving Jesus.  When we do good or bad, are diligent or negligent toward others, we are doing so to Jesus!

Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil, to seek and save the lost, and to do good to others. It is negligent to take what God has given us and not develop it. In fact, God views it as wickedness. Remember the talents 5, 2, and 1!   We either walk in the blessings of God or the curse. We either walk in favor or disfavor. We either serve others or ourselves.

My cry is, “Lord, help me to never look at another’s ability or function longingly but to look at what You have given me and help me be the best at it I can be.”  Why do we seek a position or function?  What is our motive?  Total surrender brings total peace!

LORD, help us to never be guilty of doing Your work or assignment negligently.