Disaster from the North -Jeremiah 4

Jeremiah continues with the theme of unfaithful Israel but here in chapter 4 we turn to the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness. Whilst there is a real sense that God is visiting this upon the Israelites, there is also a strong sense that they have brought this upon themselves.

"O Jerusalem, wahs the evil from your heart and be saved" 4:14

and

"Your own conduct and actions have brought this upon you. This is your punishment. How bitter it is! How it pierces the heart!" 4:18

and

"What are you doing, O devastated one? Why dress yourself in scarlet and put on jewels of gold? Why shade your eyes with paint? You adorn yourself in vain. Your lovers despise you; they seek your life" 4:30

There is an important distinction being made here - God doesn't bring disaster - He let's it happen. Let me unpack this a little. God doesn't cause missery to happen - He simply removes His protection from us and allows us to experience the full horror of our choices. There is a lesson for us all here - make the right choices!