Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the LORD, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all … And I will satiate the soul of the priests with fatness, and my people shall be satisfied with my goodness, saith the LORD. Jeremiah 31:12-14

Chapter 31 of Jeremiah is one of the most important chapters in the Bible. There are quotes and allusions from it in the New Testament. It presents a wide view of God’s plan for the ages that includes the Jews and even the New Testament era. As Jeremiah writes and speaks there are many Jewish captives in Babylon. Jeremiah is giving them hope from God of their future. They will return to their land. Much of the prophecies of this chapter won’t be totally fulfilled until the end times (30:24).

God desires to do more than to just restore the land; He restores the soul. (Psalm 23:3 He restoreth my soul) What does it say about your soul? Is it like a watered garden? This garden should symbolize a life that is flourishing and well-nourished. Is your life experiencing spiritual refreshment and growth?

·     Stay connected to God, “the fountain of living waters” (Jer. 2:13) through prayer, meditation and the study of Scripture.

·     Gardens also need sun and soil. We need the refreshment we receive from worshiping God together as a church.

·     Gardens need to have the weeds pulled out. Sin is destructive to our soul.

·     The purpose of a garden is to give beauty and/or fruit. Does your soul bear fruit and beauty? Are you a blessing to others?

 1 Thessalonians 5:23b … I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry