False Optimism

August 2–Jeremiah 28-30

“Listen now, Hananiah, the Lord has not sent you, and you have made this people trust in a lie”(28:15).

It is distinction that some people never understand. Optimism and faith are not synonymous. “Being positive” or “hoping for the best” is not always true faith in the true God. Often, the very opposite.

For months, Jeremiah had been wearing a yoke around his neck. It was an object lesson with prophetic purpose. It symbolized enslavement coming for the Jewish nation.

One day, with an eye to his own approval ratings, the false prophet Hananiah publicly confronted Jeremiah and broke the yoke. “I have broken the yoke of the king of Babylon,” Hananiah declared, as if speaking for God. “Within two years, I (God) will bring Jerusalem back from exile,” he declared to the nodding heads of the gathered observers.

A very positive word! Very hopeful! No question about it. Trouble is, it wasn’t true. It would cost Hananiah his life. See v. 16-17.

Those who speak for God must do so with great loyalty to the Spirit. No political correctness allowed. When mercy is offered by God, the prophet must make clear the terms and the kindness of it. When judgement is threatened, he/she must be equally clear as to the harsh certainties. When the word of God is sharp like a sword (Hebrews 4:12), only a FALSE prophet softens the intended blow.

Is good news good if it isn’t true? Being optimistic is a plus only so long as the hope being offered rests on the certain and sure word of the Lord.