Jeremiah 45 · Grade 5

Contentment in Hard Times

Name Date

Read and Think

Jeremiah 45 is dated to the fourth year of Jehoiakim, the year Baruch first wrote Jeremiah's scroll (chapter 36). It is placed after the account of Jerusalem's fall. Baruch's brother Seraiah served King Zedekiah (51:59).

Baruch was tied to the most unpopular prophet in Judah. His lament echoes Jeremiah's own complaints. I am weary with my groaning, and I find no rest. God responded by putting Baruch's pain in perspective. God himself was grieving as he tore down the nation he had built and planted.

Do you seek great things for yourself? Don't seek them. In a time of collapse, ambition for status would only lead to disappointment. God offered something better, his protection. Baruch would escape with his life wherever he went. Survival with God's presence was a great gift when everything else was falling. The chapter teaches contentment and faithfulness over ambition.

Show What You Know

When was the message to Baruch first given?
Who was Baruch's brother?
How did God put Baruch's pain in perspective?
What does the chapter teach?

Crossword

Across

I am weary with my groaning, and I find no ____.
Yahweh, the God of Israel, says to you, ____.

Down

In the ____ year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah.
Do you seek ____ things for yourself.
Do you ____ great things for yourself.

Think About It

What is the difference between healthy goals and seeking great things for yourself?
How can God's presence be enough when your plans fall apart?

Memory Verse

Do you seek great things for yourself? Don’t seek them; for, behold, I will bring evil on all flesh,’ says Yahweh, ‘but I will let you escape with your life wherever you go.’”

Jeremiah 45:5 (WEB)

Copy It

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for caring for me when I am tired. Help me . Amen.

Take It Home

For families: talk about these together.

When do you feel tired?
How does God care for you?
What is one way you could live out this chapter this week?