“For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished” (Jeremiah 30:11).

The Lord spoke to Jeremiah, asking him to write this prophecy in a book about the fate of Israel and Judah. He confirms that He will be responsible for their return from exile, “and thy seed from the land of their captivity; and Jacob shall return, and shall be in rest, and be quiet, and none shall make him afraid” (v.10). However, the restoration would come only after a period of appropriate discipline.

During the time of the captivity, the Lord promised to be with the remnant of His people. This promise of His presence is a foundational commitment on God’s part to His people. “And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of” (Genesis 28:15). Furthermore, it is a promise that He has extended to believers of this age also. “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20).

The purpose of God’s presence is said to be “to save thee” (text verse). This relationship and responsibility is not distant or duty bound, but very intimate; joyful and expressive, and most involved in the believer’s affairs. “The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17). This unique promise is the only specific reference to God as “singing”!

What comfort this is to us, that our commitment to Him is covered by His eternal commitment to us. He is there, and intends to stay there, singing. KBC